Frontline Conversations

Suhas Palshikar explains the delimitation row: North vs South, federalism, and women’s reservation

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 07:22:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, Suhas Palshikar, political scientist and retired professor from Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, analyses the growing controversy around the delimitation debate in India, the recent defeat of a Constitution Amendment Bill linked to women’s reservation, and the larger political implications for federalism, representation, and democratic consensus. Drawing on historical context, constitutional provisions, and political developments, he explains why delimitation is emerging as a defining issue for India’s politics over the next decade. The conversation further explores key questions around population-based representation, the imbalance between States, and the need to reconcile democratic principles with federal realities. Palshikar also reflects on the dangers of politicising and “weaponising” issues like women’s reservation, and how such strategies could increase divisions within Indian democracy. Chapters: 00:00 | Intro: Delimitation row & political context 01:29 | Why the Bill failed in Parliament 02:32 | Constitution Amendment bill & consensus politics in India 04:33 | North vs South debate: Myth or reality? 06:06 | Is federalism under threat? 08:05 | Why delimitation is necessary 10:47 | Population control vs representation debate 15:36 | GDP-based representation debate 20:40 | Weaponisation of women’s reservation issue 22:54 | Civil society’s role in democracy 24:53 | Conclusion: Future of delimitation Perfect for: - UPSC aspirants preparing Indian polity, governance, and federalism - Students of political science and constitutional law - Journalists covering elections, Parliament, and policy debates - Viewers interested in the north vs south political discourse - Anyone seeking a deeper understanding of delimitation and India’s democratic structure Credits: Host: Amey Tirodkar Editing: Razal Pareed Producers: Kavya Pradeep M and Mridula Vijayarangakumar If you found this discussion insightful, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to Frontline for more in-depth ground reports and political analysis. Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online-subscription/ Follow us on: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/frontlineindia/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/frontline_india Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/frontline.magazine LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/frontline-magazine-b12921295/ #Delimitation #IndianPolitics #Federalism #NorthVsSouth #WomensReservation #LokSabha #PoliticalAnalysis

West Bengal election 2026: Identity politics, vote banks, and the BJP vs Trinamool battle

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 07:20:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, sociologist, writer, and Dean, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Royal Global University, Guwahati, Surajit Mukhopadhyay analyses the changing dynamics of the West Bengal Assembly election 2026, focusing on how identity politics has come to shape electoral outcomes in the State. Drawing on historical and sociological insights, he explains how Bengal’s earlier politics—once centred on class and economic inequality under the Left—has gradually shifted towards assertions of ethnic, religious, and regional identities. Mukhopadhyay argues that the decline of Left politics has opened space for what he calls the “politics of primordial identities”, where communities mobilise around ethnicity, religion, and cultural recognition rather than purely economic concerns. He examines how tribal assertions, including the Kurmi demand for Scheduled Tribe status, and broader questions of linguistic and cultural recognition, are influencing key electoral regions such as Jangalmahal and North Bengal. He also explores the growing Hindu-Muslim binary in Bengal politics, while cautioning against simplistic narratives like “vote bank politics”. Instead, he emphasises voter agency, local socio-economic realities, and the role of perception in shaping electoral behaviour. The discussion further unpacks how political parties—including the Trinamool Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party—are navigating and, at times, amplifying identity-based narratives. Chapters: 00:00 | Introduction: Identity politics in Bengal 01:27 | From class to identity: Decline of Left politics 02:54 | Ethnicity and regional divides in Bengal 10:31 | Kurmi ST demand and tribal assertion 17:45 | Religion and the Hindu-Muslim binary 24:03 | Myth of vote bank politics 26:40 | BJP vs Trinamool: Narrative vs reality 32:23 | Election outlook and predictions Perfect for: - Students of political science and sociology - UPSC aspirants tracking Indian elections and society - Journalists covering elections, identity, and governance - Political observers interested in West Bengal politics - Anyone trying to understand how identity shapes modern elections Credits: Host: Suhrid Sankar Chattopadhyay Editing: Razal Pareed Producers: Kavya Pradeep M and Mridula Vijayarangakumar If you found this discussion insightful, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to Frontline for more in-depth conversations. Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online-subscription/ Follow us on: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/frontlineindia/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/frontline_india Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/frontline.magazine LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/frontline-magazine-b12921295/ #WestBengalElections #BengalPolls #IdentityPolitics #Elections2026 #BJPvsTMC #bengalelections #bjpbengal #VoteBankPolitics #IndianPolitics #tmcbengal #UPSCCurrentAffairs #ElectionExplained #HinduMuslimvotebank #mamatabengal

Dalit history month: Tamil writer Bama on Ambedkar, Dalit unity, and the politics of identity

Sat, 25 Apr 2026 16:09:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, part of a special interview series for Dalit History Month, acclaimed Tamil writer Bama reflects on over three decades of Dalit writing, the enduring legacy of B. R. Ambedkar, and the evolving realities of caste, resistance, and identity in India. She traces how Ambedkar’s call to “educate, organise, and agitate” transformed Dalit consciousness, while also pointing to the continuing challenges of unity and political organisation within Dalit communities. Drawing from her lived experiences and literary journey since "Karukku, Bama highlights how education and assertion have grown but structural inequalities persist. Bama also offers a powerful perspective on Dalit feminism, arguing that the experiences of Dalit women are distinct due to the intersection of caste and gender. She also speaks about writing as healing, the power of words, and the lessons she has learned from children and marginalised communities. Perfect for: -Students of sociology, literature, and gender studies -UPSC aspirants and competitive exam candidates -Researchers studying caste, Dalit history, and feminism -Journalists covering social justice and identity politics -Anyone interested in understanding caste and inequality in modern India Chapters: 00:00 | Introduction | Dalit history month 01:12 | Ambedkar’s legacy & Dalit assertion 04:42 | “Educate, agitate” vs lack of unity 06:53 | Dalit feminism explained 11:42 | Dalit literature & global reach 14:32 | Writing journey & life lessons 16:56 | Rural change, media, & youth 20:00 | Writing as healing & final thoughts Credits: Host: A. Mangai Editing: Razal Pareed Producers: Kavya Pradeep M and Mridula Vijayarangakumar If you found this discussion insightful, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to Frontline for more in-depth ground reports and political analysis. Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

Francesca Albanese on the genocide in Gaza, Israeli jail torture reports, and crisis of global law

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 11:45:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, Francesca Albanese, United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Occupied Palestinian Territories, discusses the ongoing crisis in Gaza, the global response to the Israel-Palestine conflict, and the role of international institutions in addressing alleged war crimes and human rights violations. Drawing on her reports, field insights, and legal analysis, she explains why she believes the situation in Gaza meets the definition of genocide under international law. Albanese reflects on her work within the United Nations, highlighting both its potential and its limitations. She argues that international law is being selectively applied, and that global powers are failing to uphold accountability despite mounting evidence and legal proceedings at institutions like the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court. The interview further examines India’s evolving relationship with Israel, raising questions about foreign policy, defence ties, and the broader implications for democracy and human rights. Albanese also opens up about the personal cost of her work, including sanctions, political pressure, and the challenges of speaking truth to power in an increasingly polarised world. Perfect for:

UPSC aspirants tracking international relations and global conflicts
Students of political science, international law, and human rights
Journalists covering geopolitics and the Middle East
Viewers seeking in-depth analysis beyond headlines
Anyone trying to understand the Gaza war and global power dynamics

Credits: Host: Prathap Nair Editing: Razal Pareed Producers: Kavya Pradeep M and Mridula Vijayarangakumar If you found this conversation insightful, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to Frontline for more deep-dive discussions on global politics and current affairs. Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

Tamil Nadu election 2026: Social media narratives, war rooms, and players

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 12:58:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, political strategist and former head of the AIADMK IT wing, Aspire Swaminathan, analyses the shifting dynamics of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly election. Drawing on his experience in managing campaigns, setting up war rooms, and travelling extensively across the State, Swaminathan explains how what was once a clear two-front contest has evolved into a complex three-way battle shaped by perception, narrative, and emerging voter behaviour. Swaminathan argues that elections today are driven more by perception than performance. While the gap between the DMK and AIADMK has narrowed, actor Vijay’s entry has sparked strong enthusiasm among young voters. However, he cautions that this social media-driven momentum may not yet translate into real vote share, comparing it to a company's “valuation hype” without historical backing. He examines voter behaviour across caste, religion, and generational lines, noting that anti-incumbency remains limited. He also evaluates the BJP’s position in Tamil Nadu, highlighting strategic gaps, leadership absence, and weak organisational traction. Chapters: 01:32 | Why TN election 2026 is “peculiar” 02:43 | DMK vs AIADMK: Has the gap closed? 03:54 | Why Seeman connects with young voters 05:50 | Vijay’s massive youth appeal explained 06:59 | Social media vs ground reality in elections 07:52 | Is Vijay only an urban phenomenon? 12:59 | Vote share math: Who gains, who loses? 15:03 | Why DMK still has a slight edge 15:32 | Anti-incumbency vs real anger 18:56 | M.K. Stalin’s changing public image 20:49 | Dynasty politics: Does it still matter? 21:48 | What’s happening with BJP in Tamil Nadu? 24:51 | Inside election war rooms 26:11 | How narratives win elections 27:56 | Conclusion Perfect for: - Students of political science and electoral studies - UPSC aspirants tracking contemporary Indian politics - Journalists covering elections, strategy, and voter behaviour - Political observers interested in Tamil Nadu’s changing landscape - Anyone trying to understand how modern elections are actually won Credits: Host: R.K. Radhakrishnan Editing: Razal Pareed Camera and Production: Kavya Pradeep M and Mridula Vijayarangakumar If you found this discussion insightful, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to Frontline for more in-depth conversations. Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online-subscription/ Follow us on: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/frontlineindia/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/frontline_india Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/frontline.magazine LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/frontline-magazine-b12921295/ #TamilNaduElections2026 #DMKvsAIADMK #TNPolitics #ElectionAnalysis #Seeman #MKStalin #EPS #TVKvijay #FrontlineConversations #YouthVote #VoteShare #PoliticalTrends #Election2026

Shailaja Paik on Ambedkar, caste "vulgarity", and women’s bodies

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 12:56:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, part of a special interview series for Dalit History Month, historian and MacArthur Fellow Shailaja Paik discusses her work on caste, gender, and Dalit women’s history in India. She explains how her research challenges dominant narratives by centring the lived experiences of Dalit women, whose voices have long been absent from mainstream archives. Paik speaks about her books on Dalit women’s education and the cultural history of Tamasha performers, highlighting how caste operates through everyday practices, institutions, and control over women’s bodies and labour. She also introduces her concept of the “sex-gender-caste complex” to explain layered forms of oppression. From the legacy of B.R. Ambedkar and anti-caste movements in Maharashtra to contemporary debates on feminism, academic freedom, and caste in global contexts, Paik provides an analysis of why caste remains central to understanding modern India. She also discusses the challenges of writing histories that were never meant to be preserved and the importance of recovering marginalised voices. Highlights: - Shailaja Paik on Dalit women’s education - “Education freed and disciplined at the same time” - The politics of caste, gender, and sexuality - The “sex-gender-caste complex” explained - Tamasha performers and hidden cultural histories - Ambedkar’s legacy and anti-caste movements - Why caste still shapes everyday life - Feminism, archives, and erased histories Perfect for: - Students of history, sociology, and gender studies - UPSC aspirants and competitive exam candidates - Researchers studying caste, Dalit history, and feminism - Journalists covering social justice and identity politics - Anyone interested in understanding caste in modern India Credits: Host: Ayesha Minhaz Camera: Mridula Vijayarangakumar Editing: Razal Pareed Producers: Mridula Vijayarangakumar and Kavya Pradeep M If you found this discussion insightful, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to Frontline for more in-depth conversations. Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online-subscription/ Follow us on: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/frontlineindia/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/frontline_india Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/frontline.magazine LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/frontline-magazine-b12921295/ #ShailajaPaik #DalitHistory #Ambedkar #DalitWomen #CasteInIndia #IndianHistory #FeminismIndia #DalitFeminism #FrontlineConversations #SocialJustice #CasteSystem #GenderStudies

Will Vijay’s TVK disrupt DMK and AIADMK? |Tamil Nadu election 2026

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 11:34:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, Felix Gerald, spokesperson for the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), discusses actor Vijay’s entry into politics and the party’s vision ahead of the Tamil Nadu Assembly election. He explains how Vijay’s long-standing social work through Vijay Makkal Iyakkam has built grassroots support and argues that the current political momentum is not merely driven by stardom but by sustained public engagement. Gerald speaks about Vijay’s political motivation, emphasising his decision to dedicate the next phase of his life to public service. He also discusses how the party views its growth trajectory, internal survey estimates, and its confidence in emerging as a major political force in Tamil Nadu. From the intersection of cinema and politics to questions of governance, corruption, and leadership style, Gerard provides insights into how TVK is positioning itself as an alternative in the State’s political landscape. He also addresses campaign challenges, public perception, and the broader appeal of Vijay as a leader cutting across social divisions. Highlights:

Vijay’s political journey
Why TVK says its rise is “not just stardom”
The role of social work in building grassroots support
Internal surveys and TVK’s growth claims
Cinema as a political tool: “Jana Nayagan” and mass outreach
Vijay’s leadership style and public messaging strategy
Youth mobilisation and cross-community appeal
Can TVK emerge as a major force in Tamil Nadu politics?

Students of political science, governance, and electoral politics
UPSC aspirants and competitive exam candidates
Researchers tracking regional parties and celebrity politics in India
Journalists covering Tamil Nadu politics and emerging parties
Citizens interested in Vijay’s political journey and TVK’s rise

Perfect for: If you found this discussion insightful, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to Frontline for more in-depth conversations. Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

Will West Bengal see its most communal election yet?

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 11:05:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, Maidul Islam, Professor at the Centre for Studies in Social Sciences, Kolkata, examines the growing communalisation of politics in West Bengal and its implications for the 2026 Assembly election. He explains how the rise of the BJP, the spread of RSS networks, and the emergence of localised Muslim political formations are reshaping Bengal’s political landscape. Islam argues that while West Bengal historically remained insulated from large-scale communal violence, the post-2014 period marked a decisive shift. He looks into the rise of low-scale communal violence and warns that the pattern of communal riots and the rise of BJP are very synchronised. Tracing electoral data from 2014 to 2024, he explains how Bengal has transitioned into a bipolar contest between the BJP and the Trinamool Congress, marginalising traditional players like the Congress and the Left. From the role of welfare politics and identity mobilisation to the strategic use of voter enumeration processes such as SIR, Islam lays out how political narratives are being reshaped ahead of the elections. He also offers a detailed electoral forecast, suggesting that the Trinamool Congress could secure between 185 and 226 seats, depending on campaign dynamics and voter consolidation. Highlights:

The rise of communal politics in West Bengal after 2014
“Low-scale communal violence” and its electoral implications
Why BJP’s growth and communal tensions appear interconnected
The decline of Congress and the Left in a bipolar political system
The role of Muslim-majority districts in shaping electoral outcomes
How SIR and voter dynamics are influencing political consolidation
Why Trinamool has emerged as the dominant political force
Seat-by-seat election prediction and possible scenarios

Students of political science, public policy, and electoral studies
UPSC aspirants and competitive exam candidates
Researchers tracking communal politics and party systems in India
Journalists covering elections, governance, and political trends
Citizens interested in understanding West Bengal’s evolving politics

Perfect for: Credits: Host: Suhrid Sankar Chattopadhyay Camera: Jayanta Shaw Editing: Razal Pareed Producers: Kavya Pradeep M and Mridula Vijayarangakumar If you found this discussion insightful, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to Frontline for more in-depth conversations. Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

DMK manifesto 2026: Key promises, alliances, & welfare politics | Manuraj Shunmugasundaram speaks

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 14:49:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, Manuraj Shunmugasundaram, national media spokesperson of the DMK, speaks about the key political narratives shaping the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly election. The discussion centres on the DMK’s latest manifesto, the Rs.8,000 coupon scheme debate, and the broader ideological framework of the Dravidian model of governance. It also discusses whether welfare measures should be viewed as “freebies” or as long-term investments in people, particularly in recognising women’s unpaid domestic labour. A major focus of the interview is the evolving political landscape, including the entry of actor Vijay and the emergence of a potential third force. Is Vijay’s political appeal built on sustained credibility or short-term hype? The discussion contrasts this with what the DMK describes as “time-tested governance” under M.K. Stalin. Chapters: 00:41 | Rs.8000 scheme debate 02:26 | Women welfare model 04:14 | DMK manifesto insights 05:46 | Dravidian model explained 06:54 | DMK alliance dynamics 09:27 | Stalin leadership model 10:39 | Opposition power play 13:34 | Tamil Nadu LPG crisis 16:30 | Federalism debate 18:53 | Temple control debate 21:38 | People’s Sanctum book 22:26 | Political personal journey 24:14 | Final takeaways -Perfect for viewers interested in: - Tamil Nadu politics and 2026 Assembly election analysis - DMK manifesto and welfare policy debates - Vijay’s political entry and opposition dynamics - Dravidian model and governance in Tamil Nadu - Federalism and Centre-State relations in India - UPSC polity and current affairs preparation Credits: Host: R.K. Radhakrishnan Editing: Razal Pareed Camera and Production: Kavya Pradeep M and Mridula Vijayarangakumar If you found this discussion insightful, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to Frontline for more in-depth conversations. Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online-subscription/ Follow us on: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/frontlineindia/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/frontline_india Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/frontline.magazine LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/frontline-magazine-b12921295/ #dmk #TamilNaduElections #MKStalin #TNPolitics #LPGCrisis #FreebiesDebate #Vijaytvk #vijaypolitics #AIADMK #IndianPolitics #Election2026 #Federalism #LPGCrisis #WomenEmpowerment #DMKManifesto #DravidianModel#BreakingPolitics #FrontlineConversations

Puducherry election 2026: Can Congress return to power? | V. Narayanasamy explains

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 03:04:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, former Puducherry Chief Minister V. Narayanasamy speaks about the political landscape ahead of the 2026 Puducherry Assembly election. The discussion looks into the performance of the BJP–N.R. Congress government, with criticism on governance, corruption, and the unfulfilled promise of statehood. He explains the alliance politics and electoral strategy, with insights into Congress–DMK coordination, seat-sharing challenges, and the dynamics of coalition politics on the ground. The interview also analyses internal rifts within rival alliances, the role of smaller parties, and whether Congress is positioned for a comeback in Puducherry. Chapters: 01:09 | Failure of BJP's double engine government 01:32 | Statehood promise not kept 02:39 | Corruption allegations explained 02:57 | Counterfeit drug scam 06:28 | Alliance conflicts & seat sharing 07:24 | BJP's internal rift 08:56 | Governors Kiran Bedi and K. Kailashnathan 09:32 | Why Narayanasamy isn’t contesting 10:03 | Is Vijay a political factor? 10:14 | Puducherry statehood debate 11:21 | Communal harmony in Karaikal 11:54 | Nominated MLAs controversy 13:11 | MLAs Joining BJP 14:10 | Latchiya Jananayaga Katchi Perfect for viewers interested in:

Puducherry politics and 2026 Assembly election
Congress vs BJP vs N.R. Congress dynamics
Statehood debate and Union Territory governance
Corruption, policy, and governance issues
Alliance politics and electoral strategy
UPSC polity and current affairs preparation
In-depth political interviews and analysis

If you found this discussion insightful, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to Frontline for more in-depth conversations. Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

Tamil Nadu election 2026: DMK vs AIADMK, alliances, and Vijay’s entry

Sat, 28 Mar 2026 14:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, psephologist Arun Krishnamurthy joins Frontline to break down the evolving dynamics of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly election. The discussion explores whether the State is moving beyond the traditional DMK–AIADMK binary and what the rise of Vijay’s TVK means for the political landscape. It looks at the role of women voters, Gen Z, and first-time voters, examining how emotional connection, welfare politics, and leadership perception are shaping electoral choices. The conversation also analyses whether schemes like the Rs.1,000 assistance and free bus travel have reached saturation, and if voter dissatisfaction could influence outcomes. A key focus is the emergence of a third political space, with TVK generating excitement among youth and urban voters. But the big question remains: will this enthusiasm translate into votes? The discussion also evaluates alliance arithmetic, vote transferability, and the balance between anti-incumbency and the desire for stability. Chapters: 00:00 | Introduction and context 00:41 | Why this election is different 02:03 | Jayalalithaa's legacy and emotional voting 00:59 | Women voters: Beyond welfare politics 05:06 | DMK welfare model: Strength or weakness? 06:15 | Rs.1000 Scheme controversy explained 08:57 | Voter mood: Stability vs change 14:34 | Is There Anti-Incumbency in Tamil Nadu? 20:53 | Can Vijay's TVK convert hype into votes? 22:51 | DMK vs AIADMK vs TVK 25:02 | Alliance Arithmetic & Vote Transfer 27:14 | Urban vs rural voting behaviour 28:13 | Is a third front a reality? 34:23 | VCK & NTK vote pattern 37:59 | Who has the most at stake? 39:59 | Final verdict Highlights:

Why the Tamil Nadu 2026 Assembly election is “no longer a binary”
Women voters shifting beyond welfare politics
DMK governance: performance vs unmet promises
AIADMK’s post-Jayalalithaa challenges
Vijay’s TVK: excitement vs actual vote conversion
Gen Z and first-time voters shaping the election
Alliance politics, vote transfer, and ground reality
Anti-incumbency vs stability debate

Tamil Nadu politics and 2026 Assembly election analysis
DMK vs AIADMK vs TVK contest
Voter behaviour, women voters, and Gen Z impact
Vijay’s political entry and TVK strategy
Welfare politics and governance debates
UPSC polity & current affairs preparation
In-depth political interviews and ground reports

Perfect for viewers interested in: Credits: Hosts: Vasanth Srinivasan and Ilangovan Rajasekaran Editing: Razal Pareed Camera and Production: Kavya Pradeep M and Mridula Vijayarangakumar If you found this discussion insightful, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to Frontline for more in-depth conversations. Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

#TamilNaduElection2026 #VijayTVK #DMKvsAIADMK #TamilNaduPolitics #GenZVoters #WomenVoters #ElectionAnalysis #IndianPolitics #TVK #Stalin #Seeman #TN2026 #FrontlineConversations

Inside AIADMK strategy: EPS leadership, BJP alliance, and TVK challenge

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 16:07:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, Kovai Sathyan, National Spokesperson of AIADMK, speaks about the high-stakes Tamil Nadu Assembly election, the AIADMK strategy under Edappadi K. Palaniswami, and the party’s battle against DMK.

He addresses key issues shaping Tamil Nadu politics today, from the debate over NEET and the impact of the 7.5% internal reservation for government school students, to the controversy around the three-language policy and Centre-State relations.

The conversation explores the AIADMK’s alliance with the BJP, countering criticism around political dependence and clarifying the dynamics of coalition politics in Tamil Nadu. He also responds to questions on minority votes, internal party challenges, and whether the 2026 election will remain a straight contest between AIADMK and DMK.

Chapters:

0:00 | Introduction & stakes for EPS

1:06 | AIADMK alliance with BJP

1:56 | Three language policy

2:34 | NEET

4:13 | Adimai Katchi & Delhi visits

6:44 | Tamil Nadu 2021 & 2026 - Seat sharing & EPS’s leverage

7:41 | EPS as CM face and NDA vs State dynamics

9:21 | DMK and alliances

9:56 | Bringing AMMK on board

11:48 | Is AIADMK weak now?

14:43 | PMK’s family fight and strength

15:17 | Shiv Sena tussel and ECI statement

16:14 | Vijay’s TVK: noise vs ground reality

18:06 | Whose votes Vijay cuts & minority arithmetic

19:31 | AIDMK vs DMK: Dravidian Majors

20:02 | Minority arithmetic in Tamil Nadu

Highlights:

- AIADMK’s strategy to counter DMK in 2026

- Stand on NEET and medical admissions in Tamil Nadu

- Impact of 7.5% reservation on MBBS seats

- BJP-AIADMK alliance explained

- Vijay’s political entry and its real impact

- Minority vote dynamics in Tamil Nadu

- EPS as the Chief Ministerial face

Perfect for viewers interested in:

- Tamil Nadu politics and 2026 election

- AIADMK vs DMK rivalry

- NEET controversy and education policy

- Vijay’s political entry and TVK

- BJP alliances in South India

- Political interviews and election analysis

If you found this discussion insightful, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to Frontline for more in-depth conversations.

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#TamilNaduPolitics #AIADMK #DMK #EPS #Stalin #TN2026 #Elections2026 #NEET #BJPAlliance #VijayPolitics #BreakingPolitics #IndiaPolitics #PoliticalInterview #Frontline

K. Kavitha on Delhi liquor case, Tihar jail, and new party plans

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 13:49:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, former MP and founder of Telangana Jagruthi, K. Kavitha speaks about the Delhi liquor case, her five months in Tihar Jail, and the personal and political fallout that followed. Reflecting on the court’s verdict discharging the accused, Kavitha raises questions about the use of investigative agencies in political battles. Kavitha also addresses the internal crisis within the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), her suspension from the party after two decades of political work, and her decision to resign from both the party and her MLC post. In the conversation, she reflects on the political costs of the case, the reputational damage she faced, and the challenges of being a woman in public life. Chapters: 00:00 | Introduction 01:45 | Delhi liquor case and court verdict 04:20 | Five months in Tihar Jail and personal costs 07:30 | Allegations of political targeting 10:15 | Misogyny and online abuse in politics 12:40 | Rift with BRS and resignation after 20 years 16:30 | Internal criticism of BRS leadership 19:45 | Telangana identity and regional politics 23:10 | TDP, Pawan Kalyan and Telangana autonomy debate 26:00 | Vision for a new political party 29:30 | What Kavitha wants from politics Highlights: - Kavitha’s response to the Delhi liquor case verdict - Her experience spending five months in Tihar Jail - Allegations of political targeting by investigative agencies - The BRS internal crisis and reasons for her resignation - Challenges faced by women in Indian politics - Debate over TTD funds and Andhra leaders inaugurating works in Telangana - Kavitha’s vision for a Telangana-first political party - The future of regional politics in Telangana Perfect for viewers interested in: - Telangana politics and regional parties - The Delhi liquor case and political investigations - BRS internal politics and the KCR family - Women in Indian politics - Telangana identity and regional autonomy debates - Contemporary political interviews and analysis Credits: Host: Ayesha Minhaz Camera: Amarnath Vallakirthi and JKM photography Editing: Razal Pareed Producers: Mridula Vijayarangakumar and Kavya Pradeep M If you found this discussion insightful, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to Frontline for more in-depth conversations. Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online-subscription/ Follow us on: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/frontlineindia/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/frontline_india Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/frontline.magazine LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/frontline-magazine-b12921295/ #KalvakuntlaKavitha #DelhiLiquorCase #frontline magazine #TelanganaPolitics #KCR #BRS #kavithainteriew #Kavitha latest interview #IndianPolitics #TiharJail #TelanganaNews

Can science in India be a dream job? | Dr Karishma S. Kaushik explains

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 13:37:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, Physician-scientist and scientific consultant Dr Karishma S. Kaushik speaks about the realities of building a career in science—beyond awards, breakthroughs, and public recognition. Drawing from her book "The Real Deal", Kaushik reflects on the often-unseen side of scientific life: failed experiments, long periods of uncertainty, and the emotional resilience required to stay the course. She explains the idea of the “leaky pipeline” in STEM, explaining why many women enter science with promise but exit midway through their careers. The conversation explores structural barriers in India’s scientific ecosystem, from limited job opportunities and lack of transparency in hiring to the burden of invisible labour that disproportionately falls on women scientists. Highlights:

Why most of science happens between achievements
The reality of failed experiments and uncertainty in research
The “leaky pipeline” and why women leave STEM careers
Differences between research ecosystems in India and the US
The role of bureaucracy in slowing down scientific work
Why humour and community matter in scientific careers
Debunking the myth of the “dream job”
Practical advice for young women considering careers in science

Women in STEM and career challenges
Science careers and PhD life
Research culture in India
Workplace inequality and gender issues
Career reality vs expectations
UPSC essay, ethics, and social issues topics

Perfect for viewers interested in: Credits: Host: Saatvika Radhakrishna Camera: Kavya Pradeep M Editing: Razal Pareed Producers: Kavya Pradeep M and Mridula Vijayarangakumar If you found this discussion insightful, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to Frontline for more in-depth conversations. Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

Will Iran lose the war? Defence expert Pravin Sawhney explains

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 13:26:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, defence analyst, author, and director of the Force Institute, Pravin Sawhney, examines the rapidly escalating war in West Asia following US–Israel strikes on Iran, and Iran's retaliatory attacks across the region. He argues that the conflict is fundamentally a “war of survival” for Iran and contends that it is unlikely to lose so long as it preserves its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Sawhney discusses the evolving military dynamics of the conflict, including Iran’s missile capabilities, the limits of Israeli air-defence systems such as Iron Dome, and the growing role of satellite navigation and modern warfare technologies. The conversation also explores the geopolitical dimensions of the crisis. Sawhney analyses the strategic support Iran is receiving from China and Russia, the shifting calculations of Gulf Cooperation Council states hosting US bases, and the economic risks posed by instability in the Strait of Hormuz. He argues that the war could reshape global deterrence politics and accelerate the transition to a multipolar world order.

Highlights: -Why Iran views the war as an existential struggle for sovereignty -The military balance between Iran, Israel, and the United States -The role of Chinese satellite systems and modern warfare technologies -Russia and China’s strategic backing of Iran in a multipolar world -The vulnerability of US bases in the Gulf and changing GCC calculations -Economic risks surrounding the Strait of Hormuz and global energy flows -How the war could reshape global deterrence and world order -India’s diplomatic stance and the debate over its strategic autonomy Perfect for viewers interested in: -West Asia geopolitics and the Iran–US–Israel conflict -Military strategy and modern warfare technologies -The role of China and Russia in global power politics -Energy security and the Strait of Hormuz -India’s foreign policy and strategic autonomy -The emerging multipolar world order Credits: Host: Gowhar Geelani Editing: Razal Pareed Producers: Kavya Pradeep M and Mridula Vijayarangakumar If you found this conversation insightful, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more in-depth discussions. Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

Journeying the Brahmaputra: China’s Yarlung Tsangpo Dam, river dolphins, and pirate encounters

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 13:45:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, author and journalist Sanjoy Hazarika speaks to writer Samrat Choudhury about his latest book, "River Traveller: Journeys On The Tsangpo-Brahmaputra From Tibet To The Bay Of Bengal"—a sweeping blend of memoir, reportage, history, and river journey spanning Tibet, Northeast India, and Bangladesh.

The discussion traces the 2,900-kilometre journey of the Brahmaputra, from the Yarlung Tsangpo in Tibet to the Bay of Bengal, exploring geopolitics, China’s dam-building ambitions, climate uncertainty, and the fragile ecology of one of Asia’s great rivers. Hazarika reflects on travelling across high plateaus and floodplains, filming in Tibet in 1998, encounters with river dolphins, and even a tense moment being chased by pirates in the Bay of Bengal.

The conversation also examines migration and citizenship debates in Assam, the complexities of the NRC, and the human stories that unfold along the river’s shifting banks. At its heart, this is also a philosophical meditation on humility, memory, and what it means to be “completely at the mercy of the river”.

Perfect for:

• Readers of travel writing, memoir, and narrative nonfiction

• Students of geopolitics, migration studies, and environmental policy

• Those interested in Northeast India, Tibet, Bangladesh, and river ecologies

• Viewers concerned about climate change, dams, and water security

Credits:

Host: Samrat Choudhury

Editing: Razal Pareed

Producers: Mridula Vijayarangakumar and Kavya Pradeep M

If you found this conversation insightful, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more in-depth discussions.

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#SanjoyHazarika #Brahmaputra #Frontlinemagazine #RiverTraveller #YarlungTsangpo #ChinaDam #RiverDolphin #brahmaputrariver #NRC #Assam #ClimateChange #Hydropower #NortheastIndia #MigrationDebate #BayOfBengal

LDF vs UDF vs BJP: Is Kerala now a tripolar political battlefield? CPI(M) MP John Brittas explains

Sat, 21 Feb 2026 16:53:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, Rajya Sabha MP and CPI(M) leader John Brittas reflects on what may be the most consequential State election in India today: the Kerala Assembly Election 2026. As Kerala heads into a high-stakes contest, Brittas examines whether the Left Democratic Front (LDF) can retain power for a third consecutive term, what anti-incumbency really means on the ground, and how the rise of the BJP is reshaping Kerala’s traditionally bipolar political system. Is Kerala now witnessing a tripolar shift? And what does that mean for the future of the Left in India? Brittas also addresses pressing national questions—from Centre–State fiscal tensions and allegations of financial discrimination, to the PM CARES transparency debate, minority consolidation, Hindu vote shifts, and the evolving media narrative around the CPI(M). Highlights: -Is there really anti-incumbency against the LDF? -Minority consolidation behind Congress—myth or reality? -Is Kerala moving from bipolar to tripolar politics? -“Soft Hindutva” allegations against the Left examined -Centre vs Kerala: fiscal injustice and federal tensions -Can LDF secure a comfortable majority again? Perfect for: -Students of political science and public policy -Journalists tracking State and national political shifts -Voters seeking deeper insight into Kerala’s 2026 elections -Anyone interested in federalism, democracy, and opposition politics in India Credits: Host- M. G. Radhakrishnan Editing- Razal Pareed Producers- Kavya Pradeep M and Mridula Vijayarangakumar Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

Why we can’t control trust: Professor Thomas Müller on media, AI, & love in modern society

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 11:22:00 -0000

In this thought-provoking episode of Frontline Conversations, Professor Thomas Müller, who teaches at the University of Würzburg, reflects on one of the most fundamental yet elusive elements of social life: trust. Elaborating on his talk at the Madras Institute of Developmental Studies, Müller challenges the idea that trust can be planned, measured, or engineered in an age dominated by algorithms, ratings, background checks, and AI-driven decision-making. Can trust be rationally chosen, or does it always involve vulnerability and risk? And what happens when societies begin to “trust mistrust” instead? Müller distinguishes trust from reliability, explores how trust forms before conscious reasoning, and examines the psychological and political consequences of widespread distrust—particularly in institutions such as the media, the police, and democratic systems. He also reflects on how social media, algorithms, and artificial intelligence are reshaping how young people relate to each other and to institutions. Highlights:

Why trust cannot be fully controlled, measured, or manufactured
The difference between trust and reliability, and why it matters
How social media and algorithms encourage control rather than trust
Declining trust in media institutions and the rise of “trusting mistrust”
The emotional and moral dimensions of trust in personal relationships
Trust, risk, and vulnerability in the age of AI and reputation platforms
What young people should unlearn about trust in hyper-connected spaces

Perfect for:

Students of sociology, psychology, education, and political theory
Journalists and media professionals examining public trust and credibility
Young people navigating relationships in algorithm-driven environments
Anyone interested in trust, institutions, democracy, and social change

Credits: Host: Saatvika Radhakrishna Camera: Kavya Pradeep M and Mridula Vijayarangakumar Editing: Razal Pareed Producer: Mridula Vijayarangakumar Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

#Trust #Frontline #AIandSociety #thomasmüller #MediaCrisis #SocialMedia #GenZ #Algorithms #MediaStudies #PodcastIndia #IntellectualContent #Frontlinemagazine #CriticalThinking #PublicDiscourse

Why India doesn’t know how many denotified tribes exist | G. N. Devy

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 08:17:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, public intellectual and activist G. N. Devy explains why India’s upcoming caste census risks repeating a historic injustice by failing to properly count denotified and nomadic tribes (DNTs)—communities criminalised under colonial rule and still living with its consequences. Tracing the origins of stigma to the Criminal Tribes Act of 1871, Devy details how entire communities were branded as criminals, confined to settlements, forced into unpaid labour, and subjected to surveillance. Although these communities were officially “denotified” in 1952, he argues that the prejudice never ended—it merely shifted into policing practices, judicial indifference, and social exclusion. Devy, who founded the Denotified and Nomadic Tribes Rights Action Group, explains why the absence of reliable census data has kept DNTs invisible in policy-making for decades. He makes a strong case for a separate census column and subcategorisation, arguing that the central issue facing these communities is not just poverty, but a deep loss of dignity rooted in historical criminalisation. Highlights: -How the Criminal Tribes Act continues to shape modern policing -The demand for a separate DNT column in the caste census -Why dignity, not just welfare, is the core issue -How nomadic and semi-nomadic livelihoods complicate enumeration -What census data means for justice, planning, and democracy -Why missing this census could delay justice by decades Perfect for viewers interested in: -Denotified and nomadic tribes in India -Caste census and enumeration politics -Colonial legacies and modern governance -Policing, stigma, and preventive detention -Human rights and constitutional justice -Marginalised communities and state accountability Credits: Host: Amey Tirodkar Editing: Razal Pareed Producer: Kavya Pradeep M Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

Why denotified tribes are missing from Indian cinema | Dakxin Chharra

Sat, 07 Feb 2026 18:07:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, filmmaker and theatre director Dakxin Chharra speaks about what it means to grow up in a community historically branded as “criminal”—and why that colonial stigma continues to shape policing, housing, cinema, and everyday life in India. Chharra discusses his journey from community theatre in Ahmedabad to founding Budhan Theatre, one of India’s most influential grassroots cultural movements. He explains how art became a form of survival and resistance for communities routinely pushed to the margins of citizenship. Drawing on lived experience, Chharra challenges the idea that Indian cinema and cultural institutions are neutral spaces. He argues that while stories of denotified tribes are often welcomed, storytellers from these communities are systematically excluded from resources, funding, and creative control. Through personal anecdotes and industry experiences, he exposes how narratives are frequently appropriated, sanitised, or retold without those who have lived them. Highlights: -What it means to be born into a “criminalised” community -Why colonial stigma still shapes policing and public perception -How Budhan Theatre turned art into a tool for justice -The politics of funding, caste, and control in Indian cinema -Why lived experience matters in representation -How theatre helped secure housing rights through the courts -Why denotified tribes remain invisible or misrepresented on screen Perfect for viewers interested in: -Denotified and nomadic tribes in India -Caste, community, and state violence -Indian cinema and cultural exclusion -Art as resistance and political theatre -Police custodial violence and human rights -Marginalised voices in storytelling Credits: Host: Saatvika Radhakrishna Editing: Razal Pareed Camera and Producers: Kavya Pradeep M and Mridula Vijayarangakumar Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

Anna Mani: The story of a great Indian scientist

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 10:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, Author Asha Gopinathan speaks to Nandita Jayaraj about her book "Anna Mani: The Uncut Diamond", a biography of one of India’s most important yet overlooked scientists. The discussion traces the life and work of Anna Mani, a pioneering meteorologist whose contributions shaped India’s weather science, atmospheric research, and scientific instrumentation in the decades after Independence. Drawing on archival material, personal letters, and scientific papers, Gopinathan reflects on Mani’s journey from C.V. Raman’s laboratory to the India Meteorological Department, and on the institutional culture of science she helped build. The discussion also examines broader questions of recognition, gender, and nation-building in Indian science, including the circumstances under which Anna Mani was denied a PhD despite completing the required work, and what her career reveals about how scientific labour is valued and remembered. Highlights:

Anna Mani’s contributions to Indian meteorology and atmospheric physics
Building indigenous scientific instruments in post-Independence India
Science as nation-building, beyond publications and prestige
Gender, recognition, and the denial of a PhD
The culture of scientific institutions then and now
Why Anna Mani’s legacy still matters today

History of Indian science and scientific institutions
Women in science and STEM in India
Meteorology, atmospheric research, and weather data
Science, policy, and nation-building
Forgotten figures in Indian intellectual history

Perfect for those interested in: Credits: Host: Nandita Jayaraj Editing: Razal Pareed Producers: Kavya Pradeep M and Mridula Vijayarangakumar Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

SIR voter list chaos: Former CEC O. P. Rawat on India's election crisis | Frontline

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 09:49:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, former Chief Election Commissioner Om Prakash Rawat speaks about the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and the growing controversy around large-scale voter deletions across several States. Drawing on his experience at the helm of the Election Commission of India (ECI), Rawat examines the legal basis of the SIR, the administrative pressures on Booth Level Officers, and the unintended consequences of placing a heavy burden of verification on voters themselves. He flags serious concerns over arbitrary deletions, logical discrepancies, and the fear and confusion the process has generated among ordinary citizens. Highlights: -Why the current SIR has led to unusually high voter deletions -The burden placed on voters and booth-level officers -Legal limits on demanding proof of citizenship -NRC fears and how SIR differs from Assam’s NRC -Risks to electoral credibility if eligible voters are excluded -The need for a more liberal, voter-friendly approach Perfect for those interested in: -Electoral reforms and voter list revisions in India -The functioning and credibility of the ECI -Voter disenfranchisement and democratic rights -SIR controversies in UP, Bihar, and other States Credits: Host: Soni Mishra Camera: Vedaant Lakhera and Vitasta Kaul Editing: Razal Pareed Producers: Kavya Pradeep M and Mridula Vijayarangakumar Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

Caste in Indian cities: Why urbanisation has not brought equality

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 14:17:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, Vamsi Vakulabharanam, co-director of the Asian Political Economy Program and associate professor of economics at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, unpacks how caste operates in Indian cities, often invisibly, but no less powerfully than in villages. Speaking from the Madras Institute of Developmental Studies, where he delivered a lecture on Caste and Spaces in Indian Cities, Vakulabharanam challenges the popular belief that urbanisation dissolves caste hierarchies. Drawing on census data and comparative urban research, he shows how Indian cities remain deeply segregated by caste, class, and religion even when they appear socially mixed on the surface. He explains how cities can feel liberating for those escaping rural oppression, yet remain profoundly unequal spaces shaped by capitalism, housing markets, labour markets, and historical patterns of settlement. Comparing Indian cities with American cities, Vakulabharanam explores how caste-based segregation mirrors racial segregation elsewhere, while also tracing how histories of colonialism, migration, and industry continue to shape cities like Hyderabad and Mumbai. Highlights: -Why caste does not disappear in cities and how it reorganises itself -How urban segregation works through housing, labour, and credit markets -What mixed neighbourhoods can (and cannot) achieve -Drawing parallels between caste segregation in India and racial segregation in the US -The historical roots of urban inequality in cities like Hyderabad and Mumbai -Why “world-class” city visions often deepen exclusion -What fighting caste discrimination in cities realistically looks like today Perfect for viewers interested in: -Caste, class, and urban inequality in India -Indian cities, housing segregation, and labour markets -Comparative urban studies and political economy -Neoliberalism, smart cities, and development politics Credits: Host: Saatvika Radhakrishna Editing: Razal Pareed Camera and Producers: Kavya Pradeep M and Mridula Vijayarangakumar Special thanks to the Madras Institute of Development Studies for facilitating the interview and providing the venue. Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online...#frontlineconversations #casteandcities #urbancaste #indiancities #urbaninequality #politicaleconomy #housingsegregation #labourmarkets #ambedkar #annihilationofcaste #smartcities #neoliberalism #socialjustice #developmentstudies Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

How crime, policing, and evil shape Delhi | Rudraneil Sengupta on "The Beast Within"

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 14:31:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, writer and journalist Rudraneil Sengupta speaks about his debut crime novel, “The Beast Within”, a gritty, dark work of crime fiction set in Delhi. Drawing on years of crime reportage, Sengupta explains why fiction, rather than non-fiction, allowed him to capture the deeper truths of crime, policing, and the nature of evil. Sengupta discusses how his close access to police officers, crime branch officials, and legal processes shaped the novel’s meticulous attention to police and bureaucratic procedure. He explains how real cases, field experiences, and encounters were decontextualised and reimagined to build a fictional narrative grounded in reality. The conversation also explores character creation, particularly the moral complexity of police officers and the city of Delhi itself as a living, breathing presence in the novel. Highlights: -Why Rudraneil Sengupta turned from non-fiction to crime fiction -How real police work and case files shaped “The Beast Within” -Inside the bureaucratic realities of Indian policing -Blending real crimes with fictional storytelling -Crime novels as social histories of cities and cultures Perfect for those interested in: -Indian crime fiction and noir -Police procedure and legal realism in novels -Delhi as a literary and social landscape -Global traditions of crime writing Credits: Host: Suhrid Sankar Chattopadhyay Camera: Jayanta Shaw Editing: Razal Pareed Producers: Kavya Pradeep M and Mridula Vijayarangakumar Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

The people of Ladakh wish to be part of the open world: Siddiq Wahid

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 14:30:00 -0000

Published on September 29, 2025. In this exclusive interview with Frontline, Siddiq Wahid, a Distinguished Professor from Shiv Nadar University and an expert on Tibet and Ladakh affairs, comments on the escalating crisis in Ladakh. He argues that the Centre must worry as growing discontent in the region threatens to take an unpredictable turn. With 75 years of demonstrated loyalty to India now being tested, Ladakh's patience is wearing thin over unfulfilled promises made by the Central government, according to the historian. Professor Wahid, who has written extensively on the region, warns that the Centre's handling of the peaceful protest movement—which seeks protection for Ladakh's unique identity, culture, language, land, and jobs—risks pushing a new generation of Ladakhi leaders into agitational and confrontational modes. This shift in leadership from older, calmer voices to younger, more assertive ones represents a dangerous inflexion point that the Central government cannot afford to ignore, particularly in a border region of such strategic importance. What makes the current situation especially significant is the unprecedented unity among Ladakh's diverse population of 3,00,000—including Muslims (Shia and Sunni), Buddhists, and Christians—with traditional divisions between Kargil and Leh, and between religious communities, being erased in the face of common concerns. Professor Wahid says this unity is a "headache" for the Centre, especially given what he describes as the BJP's strategy of exploiting fault lines. The primary concern driving this unified movement is jobs, compounded by frustrations over outsiders controlling the region's bureaucracy, administration, and police without understanding local sensibilities. He emphasises that Ladakh is resisting attempts at fragmentation and that its demands for constitutional protections are well within India's legal framework. He challenges what he calls "plain silly" accusations against prominent activists like Sonam Wangchuk, while stressing that the real challenge for Ladakhis is maintaining their unity and keeping their struggle peaceful—even as Delhi's continued neglect threatens to undermine the faith of border communities. Perfect for: Policy experts Historians Students of Indian politics Those interested in Ladakh Credits: Host: Gowhar Geelani Camera: Adil Abass and Idrees Abbas Produced by Saatvika Radhakrishna Editing by Razal Pareed

Aatish Taseer on Modi, exile, and the idea of India

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 14:26:00 -0000

Published on September 12, 2025. In this episode of Frontline Conversations, writer and journalist Aatish Taseer discusses his new book “A Return to Self: Excursions in Exile”. A memoir-travelogue, the book probes belonging, identity, and migration in a world where history is politicised and purity is weaponised. Taseer reflects on the fragility of India’s urban elite, the failures of the Opposition, and how Narendra Modi’s rise exposed deep vulnerabilities in Indian democracy. He also speaks of his own exile after his OCI card was revoked in 2019, and how it reshaped his sense of self, privilege, and home. From Morocco and Uzbekistan to Andalusia and Sri Lanka, Taseer traces the afterlives of empire, the rise of ethno-nationalism, and the fragile promise of reconciliation in post-colonial societies. Highlights: -How A Return to Self came together after Taseer’s exile -India’s elite, their arrogance, and their decline -Opposition’s failure to reinvent itself after Modi’s rise -Privilege, exile, and belonging in a politicised world -The global wave of cultural purity and populism -Islam’s erasure from Andalusia and echoes in Ayodhya -Lessons from Sri Lanka and India on decolonisation -What “home” means when exile becomes permanent Perfect for: -Readers of memoirs and travelogues with political depth -Those interested in identity, migration, and belonging -Viewers curious about India’s democratic crisis under Modi -Students of post-colonial studies and global populism -Anyone seeking insights on exile, home, and creativity Credits: Host: Abhinav Chakraborty Producer: Kavya Pradeep M Creative assistance: Mridula Vijayarangakumar Editing: Razal Pareed Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

The historian’s charge is not to forget: Audrey Truschke

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 14:25:00 -0000

Published on September 8, 2025. In her new book, India: 5,000 Years of History on the Subcontinent, Audrey Truschke once calls historians “killjoys”. It is, she tells Frontline, because people often like to weave “fantastic, semi-mythical ideas about the past where everything comes together”. The task of the historian, then, is to untie these neat ribbons of conviction and insist: it was not like that, no, it was not like that at all. This, she admits, is hardly the most pleasant part of her work. “But be mad at the truth,” she says. “Don’t be mad at the messenger.” Never one to shirk from controversy or run away from a fight, Truschke, a professor of South Asian history at Rutgers University, has long been a target of the Hindu Right, not least for her book-length reappraisal of Aurangzeb. With India, however, her lens widens. Her canvas becomes panoramic, and her questions become yet more expansive.

What distinguishes Truschke’s telling of South Asian history is her instinct to foreground the underdog. Whether it is the manual scavengers of the Indus Valley Civilisation, the nuns who shaped early Buddhism, or the labourers who sustained the Mughal empire, she coaxes us to look at the subcontinent’s past from the bottom up: “I think it is incumbent upon historians not to simply do the easiest thing—not to keep using the same texts over and over, telling only the most obvious stories—but instead to make a few corrective moves, and seek out lesser-told narratives”. Refusing the temptation to view the past through the low-hanging prism of the present, Truschke shows instead how yesterday’s discrimination deepens into today’s inequity.

While Truschke expertly traces the genealogy of hate in her book, she cautions against blaming history for our prevailing ills and bigotry. “I, for instance, do not think that Manu is responsible for [caste] prejudice in modern-day India. Modern Indians who exhibit those prejudices are responsible for them,” she says. Asked if India will ever move past its caste bias, her reply is firm: “Assuming our world does not come to a screeching halt, I absolutely think Indians will.” This belief in a brighter tomorrow is also underwritten by a personal hope. Truschke longs for the day when travel to India is once again safe for her. “Not being able to travel to India is one of the great sadnesses of my life,” she says. “I look forward to the day it moves to a better place, one that welcomes historians—both its own citizens and those from the international community.”

Perfect for:

1) Students of South Asian history

2) Historians

3) Sociologists

4) Anyone interested in Indian history

Credits:

Interview by Shreevatsa Nevatia

Edited by Razal Pareed

Produced by Team Frontline

CBFC being used as backdoor to control freedom of expression: Honey Trehan

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 14:24:00 -0000

Originally published on July 10, 2025 In this episode of Frontline Conversations, filmmaker Honey Trehan speaks about his upcoming biographical film "Punjab '95", which has run into a wall of censorship. The film, based on the life and legacy of Sikh human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, revisits a dark, documented chapter of India’s recent history—mass disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and the abuse of power during the Punjab insurgency. Although "Punjab '95" is based on court records and official documents, the Censor Board has stalled its release by demanding over 120 cuts, including the removal of factual references to Punjab, specific dates, cremation records, and details of Khalra’s torture and abduction. Trehan opens up about the politically charged certification process, which he describes as a backdoor attempt to rewrite historical memory and suppress free expression. Context: Trehan reflects on why the current political and cultural climate makes it even more important to document resistance figures like Jaswant Singh Khalra. He argues that the real threat to law and order is not the film but the silencing of history. "Punjab '95" is not just about state violence in the 1990s—it is about the battle for democratic freedoms today. Highlights: -Why "Punjab '95" is facing censorship despite being based on court-verified facts -How Honey Trehan compares CBFC’s overreach to the very abuse of power the film critiques -The story of Jaswant Singh Khalra and the estimated 25,000 extrajudicial killings in Punjab -The legal hurdles, festival withdrawals, and negotiations around the film's certification -Why Trehan believes Khalra’s story is as important as that of Bhagat Singh or Sardar Udham -What the film’s censorship reveals about freedom of expression in India today Perfect for: -Viewers following debates on censorship, civil liberties, and political cinema in India -Students of history, journalism, law, and human rights -Filmmakers and artists facing state surveillance or suppression -Citizens concerned about freedom of speech and constitutional rights -Anyone interested in Punjab’s history and resistance movements Credits: Interview by Ashutosh Sharma Produced by Kavya Pradeep M. Edited by Razal Pareed Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

Yogendra Yadav exposes Bihar SIR crisis: Why EC deleted 65 lakh voters?

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 13:13:00 -0000

Published on August 22, 2025

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, political activist Yogendra Yadav talks about the growing crisis of credibility in the Election Commission of India. He criticises the Commission’s unusual press conference over mass voter deletions in Bihar under the Special Intensive Revision (SIR), calling it the “biggest disenfranchisement drive in history.” Yadav warns that by making citizens prove their own citizenship, the Commission is undermining the foundations of Indian democracy. Drawing on data, legal arguments, and his Supreme Court petition, Yadav talks about the decline of public trust in the Election Commission, the targeting of research groups like CSDS, and the risks of repeating the Bihar exercise across the country. He also explains what the Commission must do to regain credibility and ensure fair elections. Context: The Election Commission’s SIR in Bihar asked voters to prove their citizenship with documents many don’t have. Critics say this could leave millions, especially the poor, without the right to vote. Public trust in the Commission is now at a historic low. Yadav, who has taken the issue to court, sees this as part of a bigger debate on citizenship, voter rights, and the future of Indian democracy. Highlights: -Why the Election Commission’s press conference backfired -SIR in Bihar as the largest disenfranchisement exercise in history -Declining public trust in the Election Commission -FIRs and show-cause notices against CSDS and academic institutions -What the Election Commission must do to restore credibility Perfect for: -Students and researchers of Indian politics and democracy -Journalists, legal experts, and policy analysts -Viewers concerned about elections, citizenship, and civil liberties Credits: Host: Soni Mishra Producer: Kavya Pradeep M Editor: Razal Pareed Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

How rich schools keep caste alive - Surinder Jodhka explains

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 13:07:00 -0000

Published on August 28, 2025 In this episode of Frontline Conversations, Sociologist and professor Surinder Jodhka speaks about caste, inequality, and education in contemporary India. Drawing on decades of research, Jodhka explores the paradoxes of caste in a democratic nation: even as modernisation and liberalisation promised its decline, caste has become more visible and complex. He discusses how caste operates in India’s neoliberal economy, the myth of “castelessness,” and the persistence of privilege across generations. The conversation highlights how private schooling and higher education reproduce inequalities, how affirmative action has reshaped access to opportunity, and why education remains a crucial site for struggles over equality, dignity, and citizenship. Context: Post-liberalisation India has seen rising aspirations, yet caste-based inequalities endure across schools, universities, and job markets. While affirmative action has enabled new mobility, debates around meritocracy and discrimination continue. Jodhka places these issues within a larger global discussion on inequality and democracy. Highlights: -Why caste remains central in a democratic India -Paradoxes of caste in the neoliberal economy -The myth of “castelessness” and its social consequences -How private schools reproduce privilege and exclusion -Affirmative action, meritocracy, and higher education debates -Education as a site of contestation over equality and justice -Caste as a global issue in universities abroad Perfect for: -Students and researchers of sociology, caste, and education -Journalists, educators, and policy thinkers -Viewers interested in inequality, democracy, and social justice Credits: Host: Vishal Vasanthakumar Producer: Kavya Pradeep M Editor: Razal Pareed Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online...#surinderjodhka #caste #sociology #education #meritocracy #inequality #socialjustice #indianpolitics #democracy #neoliberalism #highereducation #castelessness #india Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

ECI trust crisis: Why Lokniti-CSDS survey shocks Indian politics | Sanjay Kumar explains

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 13:06:00 -0000

Published on August 19, 2025

Sanjay Kumar, co-director of Lokniti-CSDS and a seasoned psephologist, offers a lucid critique of the Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of Bihar’s electoral rolls, a first such exercise in over two decades. He notes the need to excise duplicates and update obsolete entries—but warns that the heavy documentation requirements and exclusion of widely held ID proofs (such as Aadhaar, ration cards, and voter ID) risk disenfranchising large segments of voters, especially migrants and those added after 2003. He states that, although the SIR is framed as a lawful effort to ensure accuracy, its implementation—requiring voters to proactively submit forms and supplementary documents—could unfairly penalise many, undermining the very democratic inclusivity it purports to uphold. The process's timing and its narrow geographic focus on Bihar have amplified political anxieties that the revision may be leveraged for partisan gain rather than electoral hygiene. Opposition voices, including the INDIA bloc, decry what they view as systemic bias; legal challenges and protests allege the exercise privileges the ruling coalition by selectively excluding likely dissenting voters. Amidst mounting political heat, the Supreme Court intervened on 14 August 2025 with interim directions: the ECI must disclose the names and reasons for deletion of over 65 lakh electors, allow Aadhaar and EPIC to support objections, and publish data at district and booth levels. Kumar’s concerns thus resonate beyond procedural critique—they underscore how administrative reform must tread carefully to reinforce, not erode, democratic legitimacy. Credits: Interview by Saba Naqvi Produced by Abhinav Chakraborty and Saatvika Radhakrishna

More than 80 per cent might say they don't have faith in the Election Commission: Manoj Kumar Jha

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 12:59:00 -0000

Published on August 19, 2025 In this episode of Frontline Conversations, Politician and academic Manoj Kumar Jha talks about his new book “In Praise of Coalition Politics and Other Essays on Indian Democracy”, published by Speaking Tiger, and reflects on the future of Indian democracy after the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Jha argues that coalition governments are essential to check the “majoritarian temptation” and warns against the erosion of institutions such as the Election Commission. Drawing on his parliamentary experience and political analysis, Jha discusses the INDIA alliance, Bihar’s political transition, the significance of the caste census, and why Bihar could once again set the tone for national change. He also speaks on Kashmir post–Article 370, Operation Sindoor, and the RSS’s growing influence in governance and academia. Context The 2024 elections returned the NDA to power but with reduced numbers, making coalition partners decisive. In Bihar, meanwhile, opposition parties allege that millions have been excluded from the electoral rolls in what they call a “special intensive deletion.” Jha places these developments within a larger debate on federalism, electoral credibility, and the rise of majoritarian politics. Highlights: -Why coalition politics is vital for democracy in India -The 2024 mandate as a check on arrogance and majoritarianism -INDIA alliance’s role beyond electoral politics -Declining faith in the Election Commission and voter exclusion in Bihar -RSS influence on governance, education, and public institutions -Kashmir, Article 370, and what the Pahalgam attack reveals -Operation Sindoor and India’s global positioning Perfect for: -Students and observers of Indian politics and democracy -Journalists, policy analysts, and civil society members -Viewers interested in federalism, elections, and social justice Credits: Host: Soni mishra Camera: Vitasta Kaul and Vedaant Lakhera Producers: Vitasta Kaul, Vedaant Lakhera, and Kavya Pradeep M Editor: Razal Pareed Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online...#manojjha Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

Misunderstanding a story for history is pathetic: Indologist R. Balakrishnan

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 12:48:00 -0000

Published on May 24, 2025. On May 23, 2025, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) asked lead archaeologist K. Amarnath Ramakrishna to revise and resubmit his monumental 982-page report on the first two phases of the Keezhadi excavations. The ASI stated that two external experts had vetted the report and recommended changes to enhance its scientific rigour and authenticity. In this episode of Frontline Conversations, indologist and acclaimed author R. Balakrishnan, known for his seminal work "Journey of A Civilization: From Indus to Vagai", shares his insights into this unprecedented development with host R.K. Radhakrishnan. He speaks about the implications of returning a report of such scale and importance, the politics of archaeological narrative-making in India, and the wider significance of the Keezhadi findings for understanding Tamil civilisation and its links to the Indus Valley. Balakrishnan places the Keezhadi episode in historical context—from the early announcements of the Indus Valley Civilisation by the ASI in 1924 to the neglected reports of Adichanallur and the Dravidian paradigm in historical linguistics. He draws on decades of research, field visits, and institutional memory to offer a compelling defence of evidence-based history and public stakeholding in archaeological heritage. Watch the full video to know more Highlights: 1) Why was the Keezhadi report returned? 2) What makes Keezhadi’s findings significant? 3) The role of Tamil Nadu’s archaeological efforts 4) On delay, politics, and narrative control 5) Dravidian topocentrism and the significance of “Keeladi” 6) Can archaeology be misused to rewrite history? Credits: Interview by R.K. Radhakrishnan Camera by Kavya Pradeep M and Mridula V Editing by Sumiesh S

The Truth About Women’s Work in India | Working Girls by Paromita Vohra

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 12:16:00 -0000

Published on August 15, 2025. In this episode of Frontline Conversations, filmmaker and writer Paromita Vohra discusses her latest documentary “Working Girls”, which explores the invisible labour of women across India—from erotic dancers in Madurai to domestic workers in Mumbai. Vohra blends humour, animation, and music to create a film that invites curiosity rather than guilt. The documentary, based on the Laws of Social Reproduction research project, examines how law defines women’s work, the politics of care, and the value society assigns to different forms of labour. Vohra reflects on her journey from 2002’s “Unlimited Girls”, which captured young women’s personal feminist freedom, to today’s feminist discourse dominated by elite voices. She critiques the homogenisation of Indian documentaries, the dominance of foreign funding, and the erasure of distinctive political and artistic styles. For her, the aim is not to “challenge” the dominant narrative, but to make it irrelevant by uncovering the hundreds of other narratives that exist. Chapters: 0:00 – Intro: Paromita Vohra and "Working Girls" 0:52 – “Laws of Social Reproduction” project 3:05 – Scope, locations and filmmaking process 11:12 – Vohra’s distinct documentary approach 19:27 – Marginalisation vs dominant narratives 28:14 – Why the title "Working Girls" 33:48 – AI’s impact on documentary filmmaking Highlights -How “Working Girls” reframes our understanding of work, care, and women’s rights -Why Vohra believes humour and pleasure belong in political cinema -The politics of recognition: why some women’s labour is legal and valued, and others’ invisibilised -Why she refuses to measure marginalised women only against dominant narratives -The link between ASHA workers’ struggles and broader systemic inequalities -How India’s documentary form has become homogenised and what’s been lost -The shift in feminism from the liberalisation era to today’s elite online discourse Perfect for: -Viewers interested in gender, labour rights, and feminist cinema -Students of sociology, gender studies, law, and political science -Anyone interested in documentary filmmaking -Citizens questioning dominant narratives and exploring multiple perspectives -Anyone curious about the untold stories of women’s work in India Credits: Interview by Mridula Vijayarangakumar Produced by Kavya Pradeep M and Mridula Vijayarangakumar Edited by Razal Pareed Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

What’s happening in Bihar is a template for how elections will be conducted across India: Dipankar

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 11:19:00 -0000

Published on July 23, 2025. In this episode of Frontline Conversations, CPI(ML) Liberation leader Dipankar talks about major changes in India’s election process, starting with Bihar. Dipankar criticises what he calls the “biggest constitutional attack” in decades, pointing to voter exclusion and the politicisation of the Election Commission. With over 40 years of grassroots work, Dipankar explains how changes to voter lists, centralised control, and growing lawlessness are hurting Indian democracy and why Bihar may be the first to push back.He also talks about the INDIA alliance, Nitish Kumar’s decline, the BJP’s plans in Bihar, and the Left’s strong local presence. Context As Bihar prepares for Assembly Election later this year, a contentious debate has been triggered over the Election Commission of India's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, which is a pilot project that critics fear could disenfranchise millions of the State's most vulnerable citizens. Dipankar frames this as part of a broader redesign of democracy under the Modi government. Chapters: 00:00 – Concerns over EC’s pilot project in Bihar 01:00 – CPI(ML)’s work on the ground 01:55 – What’s really happening in Bihar 04:17 – Why BJP is out of power in Bihar 06:37 – Redesigning Indian democracy 08:35 – The ideology behind the redesign 09:26 – Challenges for the Left in Bihar 10:18 – Migration and Bihar’s labour crisis 11:52 – Bihar polls and BJP’s gameplan 13:21 – BJP’s South Bihar focus 14:15 – Chirag Paswan and Bihar politics 16:55 – Why Bihar’s core issues are ignored 17:44 – RJD and the shape of the opposition 19:03 – Inside Bihar’s political alliances 20:09 – Can the opposition unite? 22:24 – Structural flaws in the Election Commission 24:16 – What Bihar’s Muslims are saying 26:07 – 40 years of CPI(ML) in Bihar 27:51 – Bihar’s youth and their aspirations 29:51 – AIMIM’s role in the State 31:34 – Security lapses in Bihar 33:47 – How Kashmir shapes India’s foreign policy 36:41 – Closing thoughts Highlights: -Why Bihar’s electoral roll revision is more than a bureaucratic update -The link between digital exclusion and disenfranchisement -Election Commission’s changing role and centralisation of power -Bihar’s legacy of democratic resistance and why that matters now -The future of Nitish Kumar, Chirag Paswan, and BJP’s Bihar strategy -The challenges and potential of the INDIA alliance -India’s silence on Gaza and the cost of aligning with Netanyahu and Trump Perfect for: -Political observers and students of Indian democracy -Journalists, policy analysts, and human rights defenders -Viewers interested in federalism, elections, and social justice Credits: Host: Saba Naqvi Produced by Vitasta Kaul and Vedaant Lakhera Editor: Razal Pareed Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

Don’t focus on the idea that only export-led manufacturing creates jobs: Raghuram Rajan

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 11:18:00 -0000

Published on July 21, 2026.

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, economist and former RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan offers an analysis of India’s economic direction, both at home and globally. In a broad conversation with senior journalist Sukumar Muralidharan, Rajan talks about global trade barriers, India’s industrial policy, and the challenges to achieving inclusive growth.

He explains why India’s population advantage could be wasted, why high-value services might shape the country’s future more than manufacturing, and why real reform needs more decentralisation and competition. He also addresses growing concerns around data suppression, rising market risks, and the erosion of democratic accountability.

Context:

India stands at a crossroads: its economy is growing, but not fast enough to lift millions out of poverty before the country ages. Global challenges like the US trade barriers and changing trade patterns, along with domestic issues like unclear rules, powerful elites, and few new jobs, are holding India back. Raghuram Rajan shares a hopeful view on how India can change its growth path to become more competitive, fair, and prepared for the future.

Chapters:

00:00 – Protectionism in Washington, DC: What it means for India

00:45 – Why the US is turning inward on trade

02:50 – Tariffs, China, and shifting trade dynamics

06:55 – The real cost of tariffs and trade tensions

08:12 – India's trade policy and economic headwinds

13:55 – Fixing India’s growth strategy: Manufacturing vs services

Highlights:

-Why the US tariffs aren’t just posturing and what they mean for India

-How India’s protectionism creates uncertainty for business

-Why India’s population dividend may be slipping away

-Manufacturing’s limits and why services might hold the key

-A strong case for decentralisation and community-level governance

-The dangers of data suppression and state-led narrative control

Perfect for:

-Students and scholars of economics and development

-Viewers interested in India’s economic and political trajectory

-Policy professionals, journalists, and think tank researchers

-Citizens seeking insight into governance, growth, and reform

Credits:

Host: Sukumar Muralidharan

Produced by Kavya Pradeep M. and Saatvika Radhakrishna

Assistant Producer: Zara Zafia

Editor: Razal Pareed

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Cricket's interests are perennially at risk of being secondary to political interests: Gideon Haigh

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 11:17:00 -0000

Published on July 17, 2025. In this episode of Frontline Conversations, veteran cricket writer Gideon Haigh speaks about his new book “Indian Summers”, a chronicle of over a century of India-Australia cricket. Haigh reflects on the evolution of one of modern cricket’s fiercest rivalries—from the epic 2001 Eden Gardens Test to India's back-to-back series wins in Australia. He discusses why Virat Kohli is a media magnet, what makes Pat Cummins a unique captain, and how India has become cricket’s commercial hegemon. Haigh also talks about the growing political influence in cricket administration, the influence of the BCCI and Jay Shah’s role. He ends with a defence of Test cricket as the most complex and rewarding format in the sport. Context: Over the last two decades, India and Australia have emerged as the twin centres of power in international cricket—on the pitch and off it. India’s rise as a cricketing superpower has reshaped the game’s finances, culture, and diplomacy. As Australia adapts to this shift, the India-Australia rivalry is not just sporting—it’s symbolic of cricket’s new world order. Gideon Haigh’s insights come at a moment when the sport stands at the crossroads of tradition, money, and global politics. Highlights: -Why India vs Australia is the future of Test cricket -How Virat Kohli redefined India’s cricketing image in Australia -Why Pat Cummins is a departure from the Aussie captain archetype -Cricket journalism in the digital age and the challenge of independence -Haigh’s critique of Jay Shah and the political capture of cricket -Can Indian players in global leagues fix world cricket inequality? -What Saudi investment could mean for cricket’s future Perfect for: -Cricket fans following India-Australia rivalry -Readers of Gideon Haigh and cricket literature -Those interested in sports, politics, and media -Viewers tracking BCCI’s global influence -Students of sports journalism Credits: Host: Aditya Mani Jha Producer: Kavya Pradeep M. Assistant Producer: Mridula Vijayarangakumar Editor: Razal Pareed

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Bihar is still less Hindutva-oriented than other States: Ashish Ranjan

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 11:11:00 -0000

Published on July 28, 2025. As Bihar prepares for the 2025 Assembly election, a new voter list revision has sparked controversy, with fears that it could leave out Muslims, women, and marginalised castes. In this episode of Frontline Conversations, Ashish Ranjan, founder of the Data Action Lab for Emerging Societies, talks about what the data actually says and what it means for democracy in India. After spending two months on the ground in Bihar, Ashish questions claims of Aadhaar-related fraud, explains the role of caste in local politics, and talks about why Hindutva hasn’t fully taken hold in the State. He also discusses Nitish Kumar’s decline, Prashant Kishor’s entry, and what the 2025 election means for both the BJP and the RJD. Context: The Election Commission’s voter list update in Bihar has raised concerns about its timing, the Aadhaar requirement, and the risk of leaving out vulnerable voters. With Nitish Kumar losing ground and new parties stepping in, Bihar’s future is uncertain and could impact politics across the country. Chapters: 00:00 – Intro and Bihar election concerns 01:04 – Aadhaar vs population mismatch 01:32 – Voter list revision timing 02:36 – Census delay and data gaps 03:56 – Data sources and discrepancies 08:35 – EC actions and possible agenda 10:55 – Role of ECI and voter inclusion 14:38 – Nitish Kumar and Bihar’s unique politics 20:47 – Nitish’s decline and EBC vote 24:19 – Bihar’s unresolved struggles Highlights: -Why Aadhaar-linked voter roll revision may be targeting the wrong communities -The real numbers behind Bihar’s alleged “Aadhaar fraud” districts -How exclusion is replacing inclusion in India’s electoral process -Nitish Kumar’s shrinking base and the future of his EBC-women coalition -The BJP’s Bihar dilemma and its struggle to lead without allies -Prashant Kishor’s outsider strategy and the limits of electoral engineering -What Bihar’s caste dynamics reveal about power, representation, and resistance -Why Hindutva still doesn’t dominate Bihar and what that means for 2025 Perfect for: -Anyone following Indian elections, especially in the Hindi belt -Political journalists and researchers -Viewers interested in caste, democracy, and voter rights Credits: Host: Saba Naqvi Produced by Vitasta Kaul and Vedaant Lakhera Editor: Razal Pareed Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online...

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The onus is now on the people to prove they are citizens: Jagdeep S. Chhokar on SIR

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 11:01:00 -0000

Published on July 12, 2025. In this interview, Frontline speaks to Professor Jagdeep S. Chhokar, founding member of the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), about the Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar. The ongoing revision has triggered alarm over mass voter deletions, particularly of migrant and marginalised communities, with critics calling it a covert citizenship verification drive ahead of the Assembly election. Chhokar explains why the EC’s decision to shift the burden of proving citizenship onto voters violates established legal norms and undermines voter rights. Despite the Supreme Court acknowledging that checking citizenship is not the EC’s job, the process continues, risking disenfranchisement on a massive scale. The interview explores how flawed documentation rules, timing, and inadequate outreach could keep lakhs of Bihari migrant workers off the final electoral roll, especially those working in cities or on farms across India. Context: As Bihar enters the Assembly election, the EC’s voter revision drive is under legal and civil society scrutiny. Chhokar details how the move affects internal migrants, why adding Aadhaar and ration cards may still fall short, and how bureaucratic opacity is eroding the EC’s public trust. Chapters: 0:00 – Bihar's SIR: Key concerns 0:52 – Supreme Court on SIR 1:07 – Analysing SC's observations 1:34 – Three documents suggested by Court 3:47 – What SIR means for democracy 8:15 – Why SIR shouldn’t link to elections 14:09 – EC’s role in citizenship checks 18:48 – Missing documents in voter list 20:29 – Migrant workers and voter access 24:07 – Is SIR practical for migrants? 27:33 – EC’s claims vs. ground reality 33:46 – EC’s image and the need for transparency Highlights: -Why the SIR may disenfranchise migrant workers and the rural poor -What the Supreme Court said about the EC's role in verifying citizenship -Why Aadhaar, ration, and EPIC cards were initially excluded -The mismatch between statistics and on-ground realities -What voter exclusions could mean for election day tensions -The erosion of EC’s credibility and transparency Perfect For: -Citizens concerned about voting rights and electoral integrity -Journalists covering elections, civil liberties, and migration -Students of political science, public policy, and law -Activists working on disenfranchisement and migrant labour rights -Anyone following the Bihar Assembly elections Credits: Interview by Soni Mishra Produced by Kavya Pradeep M. Edited by Razal Pareed Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online...

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Water is a universal language and water scarcity also has the same language: Nimal Raghavan

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 10:59:00 -0000

Published on June 30, 2025. Environmental activist Nimal Raghavan speaks to Frontline about his wide-ranging efforts to revive water bodies across India and in Kenya. Known for his data-driven, community-focused approach, Raghavan explains how he works with local administrations and government agencies to implement sustainable models of conservation. His work on over 250 projects emphasises the vital role of grassroots participation and policy-level collaboration. In this interview, Raghavan delves into the complex task of securing financial support from private enterprises. He reflects on the organisational skills, transparency, and resilience required to align public interest with private funding. He talks about what it will take for India to achieve complete sustainability, while drawing parallels between different States. Chapters: 0:00 – Meet Nimal Raghavan 01:51 – Cyclone Gaja’s impact 06:40 – Challenges in water projects 14:42 – India vs Kenya: water restoration 29:07 – Mega Foundations' work Perfect for: -Environmentalists and conservationists -Students of environmental sciences -Ecologists -Urban and rural planners -Journalists covering climate, environment, or rural development stories. Credits: Interview by Saatvika Radhakrishna Camera by Mridula V and Kavya Pradeep M. Produced by Kavya Pradeep M. and Saatvika Radhakrishna Edited by Razal Pareed

Iran-Israel War | 'Iran sees itself in a moral fight, not a military fight': Syed Akif Zaidi

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 10:58:00 -0000

Published on June 23, 2025. In this episode of Frontline Conversations, senior journalist Saba Naqvi speaks with Syed Akif Zaidi, an Indian political analyst and research scholar at Al-Mustafa International University in Iran, who has lived in Iran for over 15 years. Speaking from Qom, near one of the sites (Fordo) bombed by the United States, Zaidi provides a detailed account of Iran's evolving response to an unprecedented escalation. As the US and Israel bomb Iranian nuclear sites, marking the first time nuclear powers have attacked a non-nuclear NPT (Non-Proliferation Treaty) signatory, Zaidi discusses what this moment means for West Asia, global balance, and the long-standing ideological conflict in the region. He contends that this attack represents a direct military confrontation between the imperial axis led by the US and Israel, and the resistance axis led by Iran, and details how the Iranian public has reacted with calm, clarity, and collective defiance. Drawing on historical insight and present-day observations, Zaidi outlines why Iran, despite facing two nuclear-armed adversaries, believes it is strategically and psychologically prepared for prolonged conflict—and why he believes American hegemony in the region is ending. Context: Zaidi examines how this conflict, which many call an act of war, rooted in a 45-year ideological standoff, has entered a dangerous new phase, with the risk of escalation, regional spillover, and potential nuclear consequences. From Tehran's internal mobilisations to Washington's strategic gamble, he analyses an unfolding global crisis. Chapters: 0:00 – Introduction 0:38 – Situation in Iran 1:53 – Iran-US conflict possible? 5:23 – Will Iran fight back? 12:50 – Use of nukes against civilians 15:15 – Iran's strategy 18:57 – What are the concerns? 29:21 – Internal challenges 34:28 – Why isn't Iran using nukes? 40:40 – India's role 49:46 – India-Iran relations 52:52 – Strait of Hormuz 56:31 – Iran's deterrence 57:19 – Iran's position Highlights: -Why the US-Israel attack marks a shift in global warfare -How Iran is managing public sentiment, resilience, and preparedness -The ideological conflict between the Resistance Axis and the Imperial Axis Iran's missile deterrence strategy and underground preparedness -Whether the US would consider using nuclear weapons again -The role of Russia, China, Turkey, and Pakistan—diplomacy versus action -What Iran's gradual retaliatory strategy could look like -Why Zaidi believes Iran does not need external military assistance Perfect for: -Viewers following the Iran–US–Israel conflict -Students of international relations, military strategy, and West Asian politics -Journalists covering geopolitics, nuclear policy, and global power shifts -Analysts examining the future of American influence in West Asia -Citizens seeking to understand the stakes of regional conflict -Anyone interested in civil resistance, deterrence, and ideological warfare Host: Saba Naqvi Produced by: Abhinav Chakraborty and Kavya Pradeep M. Editing: Razal Pareed

Raj Kapoor never stopped experimenting: Nasreen Munni Kabir

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 10:57:00 -0000

Published on June 10, 2025. In this episode of Frontline Conversations, filmmaker Varrun Sukhraj speaks with producer, director, and film historian Nasreen Munni Kabir on the life, legacy, and layered cinema of Raj Kapoor, marking his centenary year. From “Awara” to “Shree 420”, Kabir explores Kapoor’s artistic partnership with Khwaja Ahmad Abbas, his cinematic treatment of morality and class, and how his vision was shaped by political conviction, musical poetry, and emotionally complex characters. Kabir draws from decades of research and rare personal encounters, including her subtitling of Kapoor classics and time spent with Raj Kapoor himself. It is a richly personal and historically grounded conversation on the evolution of popular Hindi cinema—and the political and emotional truths it once dared to tell. Context This episode examines not only Raj Kapoor's films but the radical spirit that animated them. Nargis, for instance, wasn't just a romantic lead—she played a lawyer, a teacher, an ethical compass. These weren’t incidental choices. They were statements about a modern, secular India. Kapoor’s male protagonists, too, defied macho conventions—vulnerable, self-questioning, emotionally open. In his hands, songs weren’t interruptions—they were ideology in motion, crafted in lyrical partnership with Shailendra, Hasrat Jaipuri, and Mukesh. From political storytelling to gender representation, from cinematic authorship to the moral burden of success, Kabir shows why Raj Kapoor remains a foundational voice in Indian cinema—and what we’ve lost by drifting from that legacy. Highlights -How Raj Kapoor and Khwaja Ahmad Abbas shaped socially conscious mainstream cinema -Why Nargis’ roles in “Awara” and “Shree 420” were feminist statements ahead of their time -Raj Kapoor’s redefinition of heroism -Why Kapoor treated songs as scenes, not accessories -The power of lyricists like Shailendra in building ideological cinema -”From Mera Naam Joker” to “Bobby”: transition from idealism to spectacle Perfect for: -Admirers of classic Hindi cinema and film music -Students of film history, aesthetics, and political storytelling -Cultural critics, journalists, and researchers of post-independence India -Filmmakers exploring ethical storytelling in popular formats -Audiences curious about how femininity and masculinity were once written differently -Anyone interested in how Indian cinema once balanced entertainment with conscience Credits: Host: Varrun Sukhraj Produced by: Kavya Pradeep M. Production Assistant: Ilavenil I T Edited by: Razal Pareed Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

Pakistan has always considered India as an existential threat: General N.C. Vij

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 10:56:00 -0000

Published on June 6, 2025.

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, Amit Baruah speaks with General N.C. Vij, former Chief of Army Staff and Director General of Military Operations during the Kargil War, about the evolution of India’s military doctrine—from the constraints of Operation Vijay to the assertive response of Operation Sindoor. Citing his new book “Alone in the Ring: Decision Making in Critical Times”, General Vij discuss the key moments in India’s military history, the changing nature of warfare, and the strategic dilemmas of dealing with a nuclear-armed adversary. He shares behind-the-scenes insights from critical episodes including the Kargil conflict, the Balakot air strikes, and India’s decision to withhold troops from the Iraq War. From the role of restraint in diplomacy to the rise of narrative warfare, this conversation offers a rare window into military decision-making at the highest levels. Context As India’s military posture evolves in the face of persistent cross-border terrorism, General Vij provides a comprehensive view of how strategic thinking has changed—from 1999 to 2025. He explains the challenges of operating under nuclear thresholds, the dilemmas of revealing losses during wartime, and why future conflicts will be shaped by both battlefield capability and media narratives. Whether it’s India’s abeyance of the Indus Waters Treaty, pressures from the U.S. over Iraq, or the technological transformation of modern warfare, Vij emphasises the importance of professional candor between the armed forces and civilian leadership. Highlights -Why India showed “more restraint than necessary” during Kargil -What changed between Operation Vijay and Operation Sindoor -How military strategy adapts under the shadow of nuclear threats -The rise of UAVs, drones, and standoff warfare -The untold story behind India’s refusal to send troops to Iraq -Why controlling the narrative is as crucial as battlefield success -The challenges of trust and timing in decisions like Siachen and Indus Waters Perfect for: -Viewers interested in India’s military strategy and leadership -Students of defence policy, security studies, and modern warfare -Analysts tracking South Asia’s nuclear and conventional dynamics -Readers of military memoirs and firsthand leadership accounts -Journalists covering India-Pakistan relations and war reporting -Citizens seeking deeper understanding of military-civilian decision-making -Anyone curious about the future of Indian military doctrine Credits: Host: Amit Baruah Produced by: Abhinav Chakraborty and Kavya Pradeep M. Production Assistant: Zara Zafia Edited by: Razal Pareed Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online...

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India has now got the strategic space to act against Pakistan: Ajai Shukla

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 10:53:00 -0000

Published on June 3, 2025. The four-day conflict from May 7 to 10, known as Operation Sindoor, has triggered fierce debate across South Asia and beyond. In this exclusive interview, veteran journalist and defence analyst Ajai Shukla joins Frontline’s Amit Baruah to discuss the air war, shifting nuclear postures, and the political narratives emerging from India and Pakistan. Context With Indian authorities remaining silent in the immediate aftermath of the operation, Pakistan seized the narrative advantage—until Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan broke ranks and admitted to Indian aerial losses in an international press interaction. This interview addresses the strategic fallout, media missteps, and the operational reality behind those headlines. Highlights -Why General Chauhan’s remarks in Singapore are a turning point -The impact of delayed Indian communication on global perception -India’s calculated ambiguity vs. Pakistan’s deterrent signaling -India’s evolving drone strategy and lessons from Ukraine -Ground vs. aerial effectiveness: Who came out ahead? Perfect For -Defence watchers -Strategic affairs students -Journalists -Policymakers -Anyone seeking clarity on how military realities shape India-Pakistan dynamics beyond the headlines. Credits: Host: Amit Baruah Produced by: Abhinav Chakraborty and Kavya Pradeep M. Production Assistant: Zara Zafia Edited by: Razal Pareed

India and Pakistan are still very much on the razor's edge: Ramanathan Kumar

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 10:52:00 -0000

Published on May 29, 2025. In this episode of Frontline Conversations, Amit Baruah speaks to the former head of R&AW's Pakistan desk Ramanathan Kumar about the fragile India-Pakistan ceasefire following Operation Sindoor. With conflicting narratives, rampant propaganda, and deep-rooted mistrust on both sides, Kumar offers an assessment of the military hostilities, the risks of renewed conflict, and the larger geopolitical implications of Chinese support to Pakistan. He also warns that while the ceasefire holds for now, another terrorist strike could trigger a dangerous escalation—especially under ideologically driven leadership on both sides. Context: The ceasefire that followed the military clashes between India and Pakistan from May 7–10 has temporarily halted a volatile confrontation—but for how long? Amid claims of victories, air strikes, and retaliations, this episode cuts through the disinformation to examine what really happened. Former R&AW officer Ramanathan Kumar draws on years of intelligence experience to explain the strategic and psychological dimensions of the conflict—from satellite imagery of damaged airbases to the dangerous implications of Pakistan’s evolving military doctrine under Field Marshal Asim Munir. Kumar delves into key issues like the limits of deterrence, the potential unraveling of the Indus Waters Treaty, and how propaganda—amplified by both governments and media—can distort public understanding and box leaders into dangerous corners. Highlights: -What really happened during Operation Sindoor -Why the current India-Pakistan situation is "Not War, Not Peace" -The strategic role of disinformation and propaganda in conflict -How commercial satellite imagery challenges official narratives -The growing China-Pakistan military axis and its implications for India -Indus Waters Treaty: Legal, environmental, and existential stakes -Lessons from past conflicts like Balakot and Operation Parakram Perfect for: -Viewers interested in India-Pakistan relations -Students of geopolitics and strategic affairs -Those seeking clarity amid conflicting war narratives -People interested in military and intelligence perspectives -Followers of India’s national security and foreign policy -Journalists and analysts tracking South Asian conflict dynamics -Anyone curious about the future of the Indo-Pak ceasefire Credits: Host: Amit Baruah Editing: Razal Pareed Production Assistant: Zara Zafia Producers: Abhinav Chakraborty and Kavya Pradeep M. Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

For RSS-BJP-Hindutva, Gandhi is the real enemy: Ashutosh

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 10:51:00 -0000

Published on May 23, 2025. In a wide-ranging interview with Frontline Conversations, veteran journalist and Satya Hindi co-founder Ashutosh offers a stark analysis of India's political trajectory since 2014, characterising Narendra Modi's rise as a "right-wing revolution" that has fundamentally disrupted the nation's constitutional consensus. Speaking with host Abhinav Chakraborty about his new book "Reclaiming Bharat: What Changed in 2024 and What Lies Ahead", the former TV news anchor examines how the 2024 Lok Sabha election results signal potential cracks in the BJP's Hindutva project while warning that the RSS remains committed to dismantling Gandhian and Nehruvian ideals in its quest for a Hindu Rashtra. Context: "Reclaiming Bharat" offers a sharp, insightful analysis of India’s 2024 general election—one of the most consequential in the country’s history. Amid fears that a sweeping BJP victory could lead to fundamental constitutional changes, the party fell short of its ambitious “400 paar” target, despite Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s high-pitched campaign and the symbolic consecration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Surprisingly, even Ayodhya did not deliver a win for the BJP. Journalist Ashutosh dissects the gap between the BJP’s narrative and electoral outcomes, exploring why the party’s communal pitch failed to yield the expected results. Through a nuanced examination of political, social, and economic undercurrents, the book reveals how voters responded to the complex realities beneath the rhetoric. It is both a chronicle of a historic election and a lens into India’s uncertain political future. Highlights:

Why Ashutosh decided to write Reclaiming Bharat
Why Narendra Modi becoming Prime Minister in 2014 is a "right wing revolution"
Significance of the 2024 Lok Sabha election results
What BJP's political hegemony for Gandhi-Nehru's idea of a pluralistic India
Validity of concerns of ECI's functioning and doubts over EVMs
State of Muslims in India under Narendra Modi
How BJP's defeat in Ayodhya shows fragility of Hindutva narrative
Electoral impact of caste census in upcoming Bihar Assembly election
Whom will RSS choose as Modi's successor in BJP

People who wish to understand Indian politics
Those interested in books about Indian politics
People interested in Hindutva ideology
People interested in the significance of the 2024 Lok Sabha election results
Those who are interested in how BJP can be challenged by the Opposition
Those interested in the RSS-BJP driven by Hindutva
Those who like listening to interviews about Indian politics

Perfect for: Read the interview here: https://frontline.thehindu.com/books/... Subscribe and support Frontline Conversations for such insightful and informative interviews. Credits: Host: Abhinav Chakraborty Editing: Razal Pareed Production Assistant: Kavya Pradeep M. Producer: Abhinav Chakraborty Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

Trade is very central to Trump's world view: Navtej Sarna, former Ambassador to the US

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 10:50:00 -0000

Published on May 19, 2025. In this episode of Frontline Conversations, senior journalist Amit Baruah engages in a wide-ranging discussion with former Indian Ambassador to the United States Navtej Sarna, exploring the complexities of the U.S.-India relations during the presidency of Donald Trump. This conversation comes at a time when Trump’s statements on mediation in Kashmir, escalating trade tensions, and erratic diplomatic signalling have raised important questions for Indian foreign policy.

Drawing on decades of diplomatic experience, Sarna unpacks the deeper implications of Trump’s statements and policies for India. He cautions against overreaction to the President’s often improvisational rhetoric, emphasising instead the need for mature, long-term strategic thinking. Together, Baruah and Sarna critically examine whether Trump's approach to international relations is guided more by theatrics than consistent policy—and how India should respond. Key themes explored in the conversation: -Trump’s “offer” to mediate on Kashmir: What lies beneath the headline-grabbing remark, and why India must maintain clarity and consistency in its rejection of third-party mediation. -Strategic patience in diplomacy: How India should engage with the U.S. system beyond the White House, strengthening institutional relationships at multiple levels. -India’s position in a changing global order: Understanding the bilateral relationship in the context of Trump’s trade wars, especially with China, and what it means for India’s economic diplomacy. -The illusion of transactional diplomacy: Why a purely tactical approach to international relations can backfire, and how India can build resilience through long-term engagement. -The role of professional diplomacy: Sarna reflects on the importance of subtlety, historical awareness, and continuity in foreign policy—especially when faced with unpredictable political leadership. Sarna’s insights offer a clear-headed analysis that cuts through the noise of 24-hour news cycles, helping viewers understand the structural and strategic dimensions of the India-U.S. relationship in the Trump era and beyond. Perfect for: -Students of international relations and diplomacy -Journalists and political analysts -Those interested in US-India relations

Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295 Credits: Interview by Amit Baruah Editing by Sumiesh S. Team Frontline: Kavya Pradeep M, Saatvika Radhakrishna

'Fears of demographic change in Kashmir are real': Waheed Parra

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 10:49:00 -0000

Published on April 15, 2025. In this exclusive interview with Frontline, Waheed Parra—youth leader and legislator from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP)—raises urgent concerns over the changing demographics of Jammu and Kashmir. Citing government data, Parra reveals that over 83,000 domicile certificates have been granted to non-locals in just two years, triggering deep anxiety about identity, land, and faith among Kashmiris. From the Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025 to alleged land exploitation under the guise of development, Parra provides a pointed critique of the current administration and challenges the silence of mainstream parties, especially the National Conference. This hard-hitting conversation spotlights the post-Article 370 realities and their long-term implications on the Kashmiri identity. Context: Since the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A in August 2019, Kashmir has witnessed major legal and political shifts. The fear of demographic change—once dismissed as alarmist—is now surfacing in official figures. Waheed Parra, speaking from the legislative floor and the grassroots, argues that Kashmiris are being systematically disempowered through administrative decisions, selective inaction, and the weakening of political forums. Highlights: • 83,742 domicile certificates granted to non-locals—what the numbers reveal • Demographic anxiety and the erasure of Kashmiri identity • The politics of silence: Waheed Parra's critique of Omar Abdullah and the NC • The Waqf Act 2025 and its implications for religious autonomy • Environmental degradation and unchecked mining in the name of development Perfect for: • Viewers seeking a ground-level understanding of post-370 Kashmir • Scholars, journalists, and researchers following South Asian politics • Policy experts focused on federalism, identity, and minority rights • Anyone concerned with democracy, representation, and regional autonomy Credits: Interview by Gowhar Geelani Camera by Emm Xi Editing by Razal Pareed Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

Is Caste-Based Data the Key to Solving India's Inequality Crisis? | Interview with Sumeet Mhaskar

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 10:49:00 -0000

Published on May 9, 2025. With the government announcing plans to include caste in the upcoming census—the first such comprehensive exercise since 1931—India is once again confronting the deep questions of its social hierarchy. In this Frontline Conversations episode, senior journalist Saba Naqvi speaks to sociologist Sumeet Mhaskar to explore the significance, challenges, and far-reaching implications of this move. Context: As debates over social justice, political representation, and economic inequality intensify, the proposed caste census is emerging as a pivotal issue. Mhaskar argues that caste enumeration is not just a tool of political strategy or symbolic justice, but an essentiall mechanism for mapping India's layered social realities. The conversation also situates the census within the broader context of affirmative action, administrative resistance, and labour market inequalities. Highlights: • Why caste enumeration is critical to policymaking in contemporary India • Contrasting caste politics in Tamil Nadu and Bihar • The historic resistance of the Indian bureaucracy to reservation policies • The role of caste data in shaping inclusive welfare and employment policies • Challenges of declining public sector jobs and quality employment • Why understanding caste is essential, like gender or poverty, for tackling structural injustice Perfect for: • Students of sociology, public policy, and political science • Journalists and commentators on Indian society and governance • Advocates of data-driven policy and social equity Credits: Interview by Saba Naqvi Camera by Vitasta Kaul and Vedaant Lakhera Editing by Razal Pareed Produced by Kavya Pradeep M, Vitasta Kaul, and Vedaant Lakhera Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

Abdulrazak Gurnah: 'Larger prosperity in the world has opened up possibilities but also hostilities'

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 10:47:00 -0000

Published on April 17, 2025. In an exclusive interview for Frontline Conversations, the Tanzanian-British author Abdulrazak Gurnah talks to Aditya Mani Jha about his latest novel Theft, his first book since winning the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2021. He also discusses the themes such as class differences and migration throughout his body of work, why he spoke out against the practice of publishers using glossaries, his support for the anti-Israel BDS movement, among other things. Context: Abdulrazak Gurnah is the author of ten acclaimed novels, including the Booker-shortlisted Paradise (1994), the Booker-longlisted By the Sea (2001), and Afterlives (2020), which was shortlisted for the Orwell Prize for Fiction. A former English professor at the University of Kent and Booker Prize judge in 2016, he lives in Canterbury (UK). Gurnah's latest novel Theft is set in 1990s Zanzibar, where three young people—Badar, an uneducated servant, Karim, and Fauzia—dream of a better future. Badar finds friendship and belonging with Karim, but a false accusation disrupts their bond. As they navigate love and life, betrayal tests their friendship and changes their lives forever. Highlights:

Abdulrazak Gurnah on the themes in his latest book Theft
Gurnah on the themes across his entire body of work
Why Gurnah was one of the first writers in the UK to speak out against use of glossaries
Why Gurnah supported the anti-Israeli, pro-Palestinian Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement
The multifaceted changes in post colonial societies

People interested in fiction
Readers of books set in Africa
Readers of fiction with themes of class differences
Readers who like novels with migration as a theme
Those interested in books by Abdulrazak Gurnah
Those who like listening to interviews with Nobel Prize winning authors

Perfect for:

People interested in fiction
Readers of books set in Africa
Readers of fiction with themes of class differences
Readers who like novels with migration as a theme
Those interested in books by Abdulrazak Gurnah
Those who like listening to interviews with Nobel Prize winning authors Subscribe and support Frontline Conversations for such insightful and informative documentaries. Credits: Interview: Aditya Mani Jha Editing: Sumiesh S. Producer: Abhinav Chakraborty Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

EXCLUSIVE | Banu Mushtaq: I started writing to challenge patriarchy | International Booker Prize

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 10:45:00 -0000

Published on April 22, 2025.

In this powerful and wide-ranging conversation, acclaimed Kannada writer, activist, and advocate Banu Mushtaq speaks candidly about her International Booker Prize-shortlisted collection Heart Lamp, the struggles of Muslim women in Karnataka, and her lifelong fight against patriarchy. In an interview that is equal parts personal and political, Mushtaq reflects on decades of writing, her roots in the Bandaya (protest) literary movement, and the deeply embedded caste, class, and gender hierarchies she has challenged through her work. Context: Banu Mushtaq is a towering figure in progressive Kannada literature. A former journalist and an outspoken advocate, she has written across genres—fiction, poetry, essays—and Heart Lamp is a curated collection of 12 short stories written over three decades (1990–2023). The stories portray the inner lives of Muslim women in southern India, offering an unflinching look at their struggles and resilience. Shortlisted for the Booker Prize, Heart Lamp marks a historic moment: it's the first time a work in Kannada has received this honour. The book gives voice to lives often pushed to the margins, speaking truth to power in the face of patriarchy, religious orthodoxy, and social injustice. Highlights: Banu Mushtaq on the personal roots of Heart Lamp How the Bandaya movement shaped her writing Her early struggles as a young Muslim woman in a small town The influence of her activism on her literary voice Reflections on censorship, backlash, and being boycotted for speaking out Her thoughts on the state of Muslim women today and calls for community-driven reform The story behind the short story “Black Cobras” and its film adaptation. "Haseena" Perfect for: - Readers of feminist and socially engaged literature - Fans of regional language writing and Indian literary movements - Those interested in stories about Muslim communities in India - Viewers looking for literary voices of resistance and reform *Anyone interested in how personal experience shapes powerful storytelling - Those who appreciate interviews with bold, fearless women writers

Credits: Interview by Vikhar Ahmed Sayeed Camera by B K Vasanth Kumar Editing by Razal Pareed Produced by Saatvika Radhakrishna

'Corruption in the judiciary is a virus that is spreading': Prashant Bhushan

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 10:44:00 -0000

Published on April 11, 2025.

In the wake of the alleged recovery of bundles of currency notes in a fire at Justice Yashwant Varma’s residence, senior advocate and activist Prashant Bhushan speaks to Frontline on the growing crisis of judicial accountability in India. The incident has reignited debates on judicial appointments, corruption, and the limits of existing oversight mechanisms. Context: Following Justice Varma’s transfer and the initiation of an in-house inquiry by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna, questions are once again being raised about how effectively the judiciary can hold its own accountable. The controversy has also brought the collegium system back into the spotlight, with some in the ruling establishment reviving support for the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC), which was struck down by the Supreme Court in 2015. Highlights: • The Justice Yashwant Varma episode and its implications for judicial integrity • Why impeachment is a weak and politicised process for dealing with corrupt judges • The rarity of in-house inquiries and why that must change • Bhushan’s proposal for an independent Judicial Complaints Commission • Critique of the collegium system and the case for a transparent, independent Judicial Appointments Commission • Why giving the government a greater role in judge selection threatens judicial independence Perfect for: • Law and public policy students • Advocates of judicial transparency and reform • Journalists and political commentators Subscribe and support Frontline Perspectives for such insightful and informative documentaries. Originally published on April 11, 2025. Credits: Interview by Soni Mishra Camera by Dipesh Arora Editing by Razal Pareed Team Frontline: Vitasta Kaul, Vedaant Lakhera Produced by Kavya Pradeep M Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

'Ambedkar was clear: Hindu Raj would be the biggest calamity for India': Anand Teltumbde

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 10:43:00 -0000

Published on April 9, 2025.

Ahead of the birth anniversary of B.R. Ambedkar, public intellectual and writer Anand Teltumbde speaks to Frontline’s Amey Tirodkar about how Ambedkar's ideas are being invoked and often misappropriated by political parties across the spectrum. He discusses whether Ambedkar is truly being honoured through action, or merely worshipped in symbolism. In this interview, Teltumbde challenges the popular narrative that credits Dr. Ambedkar alone for drafting the Indian Constitution. He traces the role of the Constituent Assembly and highlights Mahatma Gandhi’s role in ensuring Ambedkar’s presence there with Congress’s support. From Article 370 and the Uniform Civil Code to the Hindu Code Bill, Teltumbde explores the contradictions in Ambedkar's political positions and the enduring relevance of his warnings against Hindu nationalism. Context: B.R. Ambedkar remains one of India’s most revered yet contested figures. While his statues are garlanded and his legacy invoked by all major political parties, Anand Teltumbde argues that much of Ambedkar's radical vision has been sidelined. Speaking from Rajgriha, Ambedkar’s residence in Mumbai, Teltumbde critiques not only the right-wing appropriation of Ambedkar’s image but also the lack of engagement with his actual writings, even among progressive followers. Highlights: • Why Ambedkar’s role in drafting the Constitution needs deeper scrutiny • Gandhi’s strategic role in bringing Ambedkar into the Constituent Assembly • Ambedkar’s nuanced views on UCC, Article 370, and the Hindu Code Bill • The RSS and BJP's appropriation of Ambedkar • The danger of reducing Ambedkar to a symbol instead of engaging with his ideas Perfect for: • Students of political science and constitutional studies • Ambedkarite thinkers and activists • Scholars of modern Indian history • Anyone interested in caste, democracy, and the future of Indian politics Read the interview here- https://frontline.thehindu.com/politi... Subscribe and support Frontline Conversations for such insightful and informative interviews. Credits: Interview by Amey Tirodkar Camera by Emmanual Karbhari Editing by Sumiesh S. Produced by Kavya Pradeep M

Why honour killing still exists in India: Lata Singh speaks

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 09:58:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, Lata Singh, rights activist and petitioner in the landmark 2006 Supreme Court judgment Lata Singh vs State of Uttar Pradesh, reflects on her personal struggle, the continuing reality of honour killings, and the fragile state of the right to choice in India. Speaking in the aftermath of a recent honour killing in Maharashtra, Lata Singh recounts the violence, legal harassment, and years of displacement she faced after marrying outside her caste. She examines how, despite clear Supreme Court guidelines and subsequent judgments, inter-caste and inter-faith couples continue to face threats from families, caste groups, and even state institutions meant to protect them. She critiques the police’s persistent reliance on “social morality” over constitutional duty, the failure to implement safe houses and fast-track courts, and the absence of a separate law recognising honour killings as a distinct crime. Singh also explains how anti-conversion laws and procedural hurdles under the Special Marriage Act increasingly place consensual adult relationships under suspicion. Highlights: -Lata Singh’s personal journey and the significance of the 2006 Supreme Court judgment -Why honour killings persist despite repeated court guidelines -The police’s failure to protect inter-caste and inter-faith couples -How anti-conversion laws clash with Article 21 and the right to choice -The urgent need for safe houses, fast-track courts, and a separate law on honour killings -Why family honour continues to trump constitutional rights Perfect for viewers interested in: -The right to choice, marriage, and personal liberty -Honour killings and caste-based violence in India -Supreme Court judgments and their implementation on the ground -Inter-faith marriages, anti-conversion laws, and constitutional rights -Gender justice, civil liberties, and institutional accountability Credits: Host: Ashutosh Sharma Camera: Dipesh Arora Editing: Razal Pareed Producer: Kavya Pradeep M and Mridula Vijayarangakumar Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online...

#frontlineconversations #latasingh #honourkilling #righttochoice #intercastemarriage #interfaithmarriage #supremecourtofindia #article21 #civilrights #womensrights #constitutionalrights #anticonversionlaws #specialmarriageact #casteviolence #democracyandrights Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

Kashmir, custody, and the cost of politics | Waheed Parra explains

Sun, 11 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, Waheed Parra, MLA from Pulwama, speaks candidly about incarceration, surveillance, and the personal cost of stringent security laws in Jammu and Kashmir. Drawing from his own experience under the UAPA, Parra reflects on how the legal process itself becomes punishment, reshaping lives, families, and political faith. He discusses custodial humiliation, the erosion of trust in institutions, and what prolonged detention does to the psyche of young Kashmiris who seek a normal life within the constitutional framework. He also talks about the politics of mainstream participation, the PDP–BJP alliance, electoral reversals, and why Kashmir’s conflict cannot be reduced to statistics of “peace” and “normalcy.” Highlights:

The personal and political cost of UAPA and prolonged legal battles
Life inside custody and the culture of indignity in detention
Why Kashmir’s youth face surveillance even within mainstream politics
The PDP–BJP alliance: intent, miscalculation, and fallout
Reservation, merit, and fears of structural disempowerment in Jammu and Kashmir
Why conflict leaves long-term trauma beyond elections and headlines

Kashmir politics after Article 370
Civil liberties, UAPA, and criminal justice in India
Mainstream politics, detention, and democratic backsliding
Youth, representation, and reservation debates in Jammu and Kashmir
India’s security state and its social consequences

Perfect for viewers interested in: Credits: Host: Gowhar Geelani Camera: Adil Abass, Idrees Abbas, and M Mukaram Editing: Razal Pareed Producers: Kavya Pradeep M and Mridula Vijayarangakumar

Originally published on December 18, 2025 Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

How the Indian Army handles religion and uniform: Lt General D. S. Hooda explains

Sun, 11 Jan 2026 03:30:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, Lt General D.S. Hooda, former Northern Army Commander, talks about how personal faith and professional duty should work inside the Indian Army. He explains why trust between officers and soldiers is the foundation of military life, and why the Supreme Court’s recent ruling on faith in uniform reinforces long-standing Army principles. Gen. Hooda discusses the role of multi-faith spaces in units, how the Army protects its secular ethos, and why rising social polarisation makes these values even more important today. He shares experiences from his service, examples of leadership in diverse regiments, and clear views on why personal belief must never affect military discipline. Highlights: -Why the Supreme Court ruling matters for faith and discipline in uniform -How multi-faith traditions help hold the Army together -Why officers must avoid visible displays of religiosity in uniform -How trust and secular values shape leadership in diverse units -What steps are needed to preserve the Army’s neutrality and professionalism Perfect for viewers interested in: -Indian Army culture and leadership -Faith, secularism and discipline in the armed forces -Civil–military relations and national security -The role of values and ethos in military institutions Credits: Host: Ashutosh Sharma Camera: Vedaant Lakhera and Vitasta Kaul Editing: Razal Pareed Producers: Kavya Pradeep M and Mridula Vijayarangakumar

Originally published on December 12, 2025 Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

Is India really the fastest-growing economy? Economist Arun Kumar breaks down the reality of numbers

Sat, 10 Jan 2026 14:28:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, senior journalist Sukumar Muralidharan speaks with economist and retired professor from JNU, Arun Kumar, who breaks down the turmoil inside India’s economic data ecosystem. He discusses the latest GDP numbers, the IMF’s “not fit for purpose” assessment, and India’s contradictory economic indicators all point to a deeper structural crisis. Kumar explains why GDP growth is increasingly detached from lived economic realities, how the unorganised sector has been rendered invisible in official measurement, and why the 2011–12 base year has distorted national accounts for a decade. He also details the political pressures shaping data releases—from unemployment and consumption surveys to poverty estimates—and warns that the upcoming revision of the GDP series may still fail without census data and transparency in methodology. Sukumar Muralidharan is an independent writer, researcher, and journalism instructor based in the Delhi region. Formerly the Chief of Bureau, Frontline, New Delhi, he has spent over two decades in print journalism, writing on science, technology, economics, and political affairs. Highlights: -Why India’s GDP numbers are unreliable—and what the IMF got right -How the shift to the MCA-21 database and removal of shell companies distorted growth estimates -The systematic invisibilisation of the unorganised sector after demonetisation, GST and the pandemic -Manipulation of data on employment, consumption, poverty and health -The political logic behind “fastest growing economy” narratives -Why GST cuts, corporate-friendly labour codes and tariff geopolitics are worsening inequality Perfect for those interested in: -Students of economics and public policy -Researchers of political economy and development studies -Informal sector and labour rights activists -Think-tank analysts tracking India’s macroeconomic indicators Credits: Host: Sukumar Muralidharan Camera: Vedaant Lakhera and Vitasta Kaul Editing: Razal Pareed Producers: Mridula Vijayarangakumar and Kavya Pradeep M Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online...

Originally published on December 5, 2025 Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

Delhi blast: Ex-IB Chief Yashovardhan Azad on India’s security gaps

Sat, 10 Jan 2026 14:23:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, former IPS officer and security expert Yashovardhan Jha Azad speaks about the recent bomb blast in Delhi and what it reveals about India’s internal security landscape. Drawing on his decades of experience in the Intelligence Bureau and the Government of India, Azad describes the attack as an inflection point—one that exposes gaps in policing, community vigilance, intelligence coordination and the limits of over-reliance on technology. Azad explains how the module behind the blast operated undetected for over two years, why human intelligence remains irreplaceable despite digital tools, and how radicalisation among educated professionals poses a long-term national threat. He also reflects on federal security management, the evolving nature of terrorism beyond Kashmir, and the need for political leadership in counter-terror strategy. Highlights: -Why the Delhi blast is a “reality check” and an inflection point for India’s internal security -How over-dependence on technology has weakened human intelligence networks -The dangers of radicalisation among educated youth, doctors and professionals -Why community policing and societal vigilance failed to detect the module -The need for political leadership, state-driven deradicalisation, and reinstating trust in democratic processes Perfect for those interested in: -Internal security, policing and counter-terrorism in India -The evolution and tracking of terror networks -Radicalisation patterns and challenges for intelligence agencies -Naxalism, Manipur’s crisis and shifting national security priorities -Policy debates on human intelligence, surveillance, and federal-state cooperation Credits: Host: Ashutosh Sharma Camera: Vedaant Lakhera and Vitasta Kaul Editing: Razal Pareed Producers: Mridula Vijayarangakumar and Kavya Pradeep M Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online...

Originally published on December 2, 2025 Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

Why India exists because of the monsoon | Author Sunil Tambe explains

Sat, 10 Jan 2026 14:13:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, author Sunil Tambe, discusses his Marathi book Monsoon Jan Gan Man, which argues that the monsoon—not religion, language, or ethnicity—is the true binding force of the Indian subcontinent. In a political moment dominated by hyper-majoritarian nationalism, Tambe suggests that understanding India requires understanding the monsoon: its ecology, its rhythms, and the civilisations it has shaped. Tambe traces how monsoon-dependent water cycles structured India’s social and economic life. He explains how caste emerged as an adaptive system of resource distribution, how Arab- and China-driven maritime trade fostered coastal cosmopolitanism and religious tolerance, and how monsoon-linked agrarian abundance powered empires from the Cauvery delta to Southeast Asia. As climate change disrupts rainfall, glaciers, coastal lines, and livelihoods across Pakistan, Bangladesh, and India, he warns that monsoon nationalism—not religious nationalism—might be the more urgent political idea for our era. Highlights

How the monsoon acts as South Asia’s centripetal cultural force
Why caste evolved from ecological constraints and resource adaptation
How monsoon winds created cosmopolitan coasts, trade networks, and religious pluralism
The monsoon logic behind India’s two agricultural seasons and festival calendars
Why the Cauvery delta’s dual monsoons fuelled Chola expansion into Southeast Asia
How new states increasingly align with IMD’s monsoon subdivisions

Students of environmental history, anthropology, and South Asian studies
Researchers studying caste ecology, maritime trade, and climate politics
Policy analysts examining state formation, hydrology, and resource conflicts
Readers curious about the cultural and political logic of the monsoon

Perfect for Credits Host: Amey Tirodkar Camera: Emmanuel Jackkie Karbhari Editing: Razal Pareed Producer: Mridula Vijayarangakumar

Originally published on November 22, 2025 Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... #monsoonjanaganaman #suniltambe #frontlineconversations #monsoonnationalism #southasia #maritimetrade #casteecology #indianmonsoon #climatechange #cauverydelta #cholaempire #southasianhistory #environmentalhistory #imd #monsoonsubdivisions #indianfestivals #coastalcosmopolitanism #maritimeindia Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

What makes Serendipity Arts Festival so unique? Sunil Kant Munjal explains.

Sat, 10 Jan 2026 13:44:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, Sunil Kant Munjal—Chairman of Hero Enterprise and Founder-Patron of the Serendipity Arts Festival—speaks about the making of one of India’s most unique cultural platforms. Now in its 10th year, the festival in Panaji, Goa, brings together visual arts, theatre, music, dance, literature, culinary arts, craft, and new-media practices on a scale unmatched in the country. Munjal traces the festival’s evolution from an unconventional idea to a global, interdisciplinary space that welcomes over a lakh visitors a day and artists from more than 30 countries. He speaks about why business leaders must engage with the arts, why Goa became the festival’s home, and how Serendipity bridges tradition and technology—from tribal and artisanal practices to AI, NFTs, and future-facing art forms. He discusses the festival as a space for expression in a time of shrinking creative freedoms, the role of philanthropy in sustaining the arts, and his vision for the next decade: deeper research, year-round initiatives, and permanent institutions that nurture creativity beyond the annual event. Highlights: -How an ambitious idea became India’s only truly interdisciplinary arts festival -The mix of heritage, craft, technology, AI, and future media -Why business leaders make better decisions when exposed to the arts -Culinary arts as culture—and why food deserves the same space as performance -Art as expression without disruption: creating a neutral space for dialogue Perfect for: -Followers of Indian arts and culture -Students of interdisciplinary and contemporary art -Creators, curators, and cultural practitioners Credits: Host: Mridula Vijayarangakumar Camera: Kavya Pradeep M Editing: Razal Pareed Producers: Mridula Vijayarangakumar and Kavya Pradeep M

Originally published on November 17, 2025 Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

Why are human-tiger conflicts growing in India? Ullas Karanth explains

Sat, 10 Jan 2026 13:42:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, wildlife biologist K. Ullas Karanth, one of the world’s foremost tiger conservation experts, examines the recent spike in human–tiger conflict around Bandipur National Park. Drawing on decades of field research in Nagarhole, Bandipur, and other Western Ghats reserves, Karanth explains why rising tiger densities, habitat manipulation, and irrational human responses are driving dangerous encounters. Karanth argues that while tiger numbers have grown in protected areas, this growth is not entirely natural. He sharply critiques India’s tiger census numbers, calling them poorly collected and scientifically unsound, and explains why once-in-four-years surveys fail to capture natural fluctuations in tiger populations. Drawing from 30 years of rigorous camera-trap monitoring, he details how real conservation science requires annual estimates, mortality data, and independent ecological auditing—not bureaucratic control and token surveys. From the politics of creating new tiger reserves to the failures of current forest bureaucracy, Karanth lays out why India needs independent ecological science, rational management, and an expansion of protected areas if long-term tiger conservation is to succeed. Context Four recent attacks near Bandipur—including three fatalities—have renewed debate on whether rising tiger numbers, habitat mismanagement, and chaotic local responses are making coexistence increasingly fragile. With villagers, forest staff, and conservationists facing escalating conflict, the need for grounded science has never been more urgent. Highlights:

Why tiger densities have exceeded ecological limits
Artificial habitat manipulation and inflated prey numbers
The limits of “coexistence” at the scale of individual parks
Why India’s official tiger estimates are scientifically flawed
When conflict erupts: distinguishing fear-driven attacks from true man-eaters
Why rescue, translocation, and cage-based solutions often fail
The need for independent ecological auditing and evidence-based management

Students of wildlife biology, ecology, and conservation science
Researchers studying predator–prey dynamics and protected area governance
Journalists covering environmental policy and human–wildlife conflict
Forest officers, policymakers, and conservation practitioners
Citizens concerned about tiger conservation and rural livelihoods

Perfect for: Credits: Host: Vikhar Ahmed Sayeed Camera: Rabi Debnath Editing: Sumiesh S. Producers: Kavya Pradeep M and Mridula Vijayarangakumar

Originally published on November 15, 2025 Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online...#ullaskaranth #tigerconservation #humanwildlifeconflict #bandipurtigerreserve #nagarholenationalpark #wildlifebiology #tigerattacks #mananimalconflict #westernghats #projecttiger #wildlifeconservation #ecologyindia #forestdept #predatorpreydynamics #karnatakawildlife #tigerreservesindia #conservationscience #bigcatsindia #environment Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

Prashant Bhushan on SIR, voter deletions, and the ECI’s credibility crisis

Sat, 10 Jan 2026 13:40:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, lawyer and activist Prashant Bhushan speaks with Frontline about the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and the growing concerns over voter disenfranchisement, transparency, and political manipulation. Bhushan dissects the Election Commission of India's (ECI) opaque process, alleging that the SIR risks becoming a tool to exclude minorities and dissenting voters rather than purify the rolls. He outlines how flawed verification mechanisms, arbitrary deletions, and a lack of public oversight could undermine electoral integrity across India, and warns that without transparency, social audits, and independent oversight, the revision exercise could erode faith in democracy itself. Highlights:

Why the SIR risks excluding legitimate voters under the guise of “purification”
Allegations of centralised voter roll manipulation and data misuse
The ECI's selective response to political complaints
How Aadhaar, citizenship rules, and arbitrary deletions intersect to disenfranchise the poor
A proposal for transparent, booth-level social audits of electoral rolls

Electoral democracy and institutional accountability in India
The politics of disenfranchisement and citizenship
Election Commission reforms and digital transparency
Bihar’s SIR controversy and its national implications
The intersection of democracy, technology, and civil rights

Perfect for those interested in: Credits: Interviewer: Soni Mishra Camera: Vedaant Lakhera and Vitasta Kaul Editing: Razal Pareed Producers: Kavya Pradeep M and Mridula Vijayarangakumar

Originally published on November 13, 2025 Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

BJP is no longer denying caste; it is managing it politically: Anand Teltumbde

Sat, 10 Jan 2026 13:38:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, academic and author, Anand Teltumbde speaks with Frontline’s Amey Tirodkar about his latest book, The Caste Con Census, and the turbulent debate over the caste census in India. Teltumbde questions whether enumeration can dismantle caste or whether it risks reinforcing the very hierarchies it claims to challenge. He traces how colonial censuses transformed caste into a rigid, state-certified order, argues that today’s push for a caste census risks repeating those mistakes, and dissects how both the BJP and Congress are weaponising caste data for political gain. He warns that without genuine redistribution and structural reform, a caste census could deepen social fragmentation while masking the state’s failure in education, health, and livelihood. Highlights:

How colonial censuses turned caste from a fluid practice into a rigid hierarchy
Why counting caste may not cure inequality
The BJP’s strategic embrace of the caste census and its political motives
Congress’s late but tactical shift toward social justice and representation
Why data without redistribution can’t dismantle caste or economic inequality

Caste politics and social justice in India
Historical roots of colonial classification
The Bihar 2025 election and the politics of caste
The intersection of caste, class, and neoliberalism

Perfect for those interested in: Credits: Interview by Amey Tirodkar Camera: Emmanual Jackkie Karbhari Editing: Razal Pareed Produced by Mridula Vijayarangakumar

Originally published on November 8, 2025 Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

Being Tamil is an identity you acquire by doing, by speaking, by belonging: Vignesh Rajahmani

Sat, 10 Jan 2026 10:07:00 -0000

In the latest episode of Frontline Conversations, senior journalist Nirupama Subramanian speaks with Vignesh Rajahmani, author of "The Dravidian Pathway: How the DMK Redefined Power and Identity in South India". The discussion explores how a century-old social reform movement evolved into a durable political force that reshaped Tamil Nadu’s social and political landscape. Rajahmani traces the movement’s early roots from the Justice Party, to its formation under Periyar and Annadurai, and its transformation into a political organisation grounded in social justice, linguistic pride, and regional identity. The conversation also examines the Dravidian model’s contemporary relevance—its achievements in welfare and governance, its internal contradictions, and the challenges it faces in a changing political climate. From the DMK’s innovative use of reading rooms to its evolving ideological stance, Rajahmani offers a layered account of how ideas of equality, language, and power continue to define Tamil politics. Perfect for: -Students and scholars of political science, sociology, and South Asian studies -Journalists and readers interested in Tamil Nadu’s political history -Followers of Dravidian politics and social justice movements -Anyone curious about how ideas of language, identity, and power shape Indian democracy -Viewers seeking context on the DMK’s evolution and its continuing influence Credits: Host: Nirupama Subramanian Editing: Razal Pareed Producer: Saatvika Radhakrishna and Kavya Pradeep M

Originally published on November 7, 2025 Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

Bihar election 2025: Why CPI(M-L) is a big factor this time | Dipankar explains

Sat, 10 Jan 2026 09:59:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, Dipankar, General Secretary of the CPI(M-L) Liberation, speaks with Vaishna Roy, Frontline’s editor and Anand Mishra, Frontline’s Political Editor, about the shifting political landscape in Bihar ahead of the 2025 elections. Dipankar analyses why the Left’s grassroots presence in Bihar has grown, how feudalism and fascism intersect, and what the INDIA bloc’s prospects are against the BJP-JDU alliance. He also examines Bihar’s “flyover-and-bypass model” of development, the State’s agrarian and employment crisis, and the structural neglect that continues to push workers out of the State. He discusses subaltern Hindutva, caste and class politics, and the enduring need for land reform, social justice, and economic empowerment. The conversation also looks at the decline of Nitish Kumar’s appeal, questions of secularism and representation, and the rise and limits of new political experiments such as Prashant Kishor’s Jan Suraaj. Highlights: -Why CPI(M-L) has emerged as a key factor in Bihar’s 2025 election -Dipankar on the “flyover-bypass” model of development and the collapse of governance -Bihar’s struggle with migration, jobs, and agrarian reform -The caste–class–gender intersection in Left politics -Feudal restoration, fascism, and Hindutva in Bihar Watch if you’re interested in: -Indian electoral politics and the 2025 Bihar election -Left and socialist movements in India -Caste, class, and ideology in regional politics -Agrarian reform, labour, and economic justice Credits: Interview by: Vaishna Roy and Anand Mishra Camera: Ranjan Rahi Editing: Razal Pareed Produced by: Team Frontline

Originally published on November 4, 2025 Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

Frontline Exclusive | I’m asking the RSS to follow the law of the land: Priyank Kharge

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 14:51:00 -0000

In this exclusive interview with Frontline, Priyank Kharge, Karnataka’s Minister of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Information Technology, and Biotechnology, discusses his call to regulate RSS and other organisations’ activities in government schools, colleges, and public spaces. On October 4, Kharge wrote to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, urging restrictions on RSS activities in government institutions and public areas. The letter ignited political controversy, with the BJP accusing him of targeting the organisation for political purposes. His appeal came just two days after the RSS celebrated its centenary with processions across the State. Kharge’s key demand: any organisation using government or public spaces must obtain prior permission from the authorities. In the interview, he elaborates on his position, questions the RSS’s funding sources and regulatory exemptions, and responds to criticisms of his stance. Highlights:

Why Priyank Kharge called for regulating RSS activities
The legal and constitutional issues around public space use
RSS’s centenary and questions over its funding and registration
Historical Congress-RSS tensions and their present implications
Kharge’s views on radicalisation, caste, and economic empowerment
The wider debate on equality, democracy, and ideological accountability

Students of Indian politics, governance, and constitutional law
Journalists and policy researchers studying the RSS and state institutions
Political science and sociology students exploring ideology and power
Those interested in Karnataka politics, Congress strategy, and secular governance

Perfect for: Credits: Host: Vikhar Ahmed Sayeed Camera: K. Murali Kumar Editing: Razal Pareed Producer: Mridula Vijayarangakumar

Originally published on October 18, 2025. Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

Ghatam player Sumana: Breaking barriers in Carnatic music

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 14:35:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, ghatam player Sumana Chandrashekar shares her journey as one of the few women percussionists in Carnatic music. In her new memoir, “Song of the Clay Pot – My Journey With the Ghatam”, she traces her path from a mystical calling to mastering an instrument long at the margins of tradition. Guided by her guru Sukanya Ramgopal—the first woman ghatam artist—Sumana recounts her apprenticeship with maestros and traditional makers in Manamadurai, her reflections on caste and craft, and the challenges of relearning to play after COVID. She explores the ghatam itself—a deceptively simple clay pot that holds a world of sounds—and its long history of invisibility and quiet endurance. Watch the exclusive interview as Sumana performs live, discusses her signature style, and shares what it means to find one’s calling, break barriers, and sustain a rhythm all on her own. Highlights: -How a mystical dream led Sumana to the ghatam -Training with India's iconic woman percussion guru -Gender barriers and the evolution of women in Carnatic percussion -The craftsmanship of Manamadurai’s ghatam makers -Overcoming health and artistic setbacks during COVID -The meaning and symbolism of her performance turban Perfect for: -Listeners of Indian classical music -Students of art, craft, and gender -Musicians and percussion enthusiasts -Anyone drawn to stories of resilience and creative faith Credits: Host: Vikhar Ahmed Sayeed Camera: Kavya Pradeep M and Mridula Vijayarangakumar Creative assistance: Saatvika Radhakrishna Editing: Razal Pareed Producer: Kavya Pradeep M

Originally published on October 13, 2025. Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

West Bengal flood crisis: Climate change or dam failure?| Nilanjan Ghosh explains

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 14:08:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, ecological economist Nilanjan Ghosh, Head of the Centre for New Economic Diplomacy at the Observer Research Foundation (ORF), examines the recent floods in north Bengal and questions whether they were a natural calamity or the outcome of flawed water governance. Drawing from years of research in ecological economics and river basin systems, Ghosh argues that floods are not disasters in themselves but become destructive when human encroachment, unscientific dam releases, and outdated engineering models interfere with river ecosystems. He critically evaluates the role of hydropower projects along the Teesta and other Himalayan rivers, the legacy of colonial-era water control systems, and why storage-based dams in seismic and climate-unstable zones could prove dangerous. Ghosh explains how sediment flow, cloudburst unpredictability, lack of basin-level coordination, and transboundary data-sharing gaps (especially with Bhutan, Nepal, and China) have intensified flood damages. Citing global trends in dam decommissioning, he calls for a shift from reductionist engineering to holistic, ecosystem-based governance. He also discusses the shrinking Ganga-Brahmaputra-Meghna delta, the ecological consequences of embankments, urban encroachments into river corridors, and the urgent need for integrated river basin management rooted in sustainability, equity, and climate resilience. Context North Bengal recently witnessed devastating floods after intense rainfall triggered flash deluges, raising allegations around dam water discharge and systemic mismanagement. With over 30 hydropower projects operating along the Teesta basin and increasing climate instability, experts warn of growing disaster risks unless policies shift from control to coexistence. Highlights: -Are floods natural or “man-made” damages? -The ecological cost of hydropower projects in the Himalayas -Sediment disruption and the shrinking Ganga delta -Why colonial flood control models no longer work -Seismic risks and unpredictability of cloudbursts -Encroachment, urbanisation, and the destruction of floodplains -Why India needs transboundary data-sharing and basin-level governance Perfect for: -Students of environmental studies, climate policy, and development economics -Researchers, hydrologists, and policy practitioners -Journalists covering climate disasters and infrastructure politics -Citizens concerned about ecological governance and disaster risk -Viewers tracking Himalayan climate challenges and river politics Credits: Host: Suhrid Sankar Chattopadhyay Camera: Jayanta Shaw Editing: Razal Pareed Producer: Kavya Pradeep M

Originally published on October 27, 2025 Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

Voices from Kalyan Bigha

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 14:01:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, Political Editor Anand Mishra visits Kalyan Bigha, the ancestral village of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, to explore the making of a leader who has dominated the State’s politics for two decades. Speaking with Sitaramji, Nitish Kumar’s childhood companion and long-time associate, the conversation traces his journey from a thoughtful boy who mediated playground fights to a political figure seen as both a reformer and a relic of the old order. As Bihar heads toward yet another election, Frontline revisits Nitish Kumar's legacy through the eyes of those who knew him best. From his early promise and developmental politics to the fatigue of incumbency and questions about his health, this ground report captures how memory, loyalty, and myth-making intersect in Bihar’s political imagination. Highlights:

Nitish Kumar’s childhood and his reputation as a conciliator
The making of a political persona rooted in rural Bihar
How villagers view his two decades in power
The evolution of caste and development politics under his rule
Tejashwi Yadav’s challenge and the limits of generational change
Reflections on legacy, loyalty, and the fading aura of leadership

Viewers following Bihar’s 2025 election closely
Students of political science
Journalists and researchers studying leadership and democracy

Perfect for: Credits: Reported by: Anand Mishra Camera: Ranjan Rahi Editing: Razal Pareed Produced by: Vedaant Lakhera and Vitasta Kaul

Originally published on November 1, 2025 Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

AI is being trained to replace us: Sushin Shyam

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 11:03:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, music director Sushin Shyam talks about what led to his return to independent music with "Ray" after years of composing for Malayalam films. From his first experiment with “Under the Apple Tree” in 2013 to blockbuster scores for “Kismath”, “Ezra”, “Kumbalangi Nights”, “Aavesham”, and “Manjummel Boys”, Shyam reflects on how his sound has evolved and why Ray marks a personal full circle. He shares why he values melody over virality, how creative blocks keep him grounded, and why taking long breaks is essential for artistic survival. The conversation also explores the pressures of commercial cinema, the demand for “viral” tracks, the unique space Malayalam music offers for experimentation, and the rising concerns over AI-driven compositions and restrictive contracts. For Shyam, “Ray” is about slowing down, reclaiming freedom, and rediscovering why he makes music. Highlights: -Shyam’s journey from “Under the Apple Tree” to “Ray” -Why he sees “Ray” as a return to freedom and patience -How “Kumbalangi Nights” made his music a national phenomenon -Virality, reels, and the pressure to “go viral” -AI and the looming threats to musicians’ rights -Why Malayalam cinema remains a ground for experimentation -Taking long breaks to protect creativity and longevity Perfect for: -Admirers of Sushin Shyam’s music and his new music video “Ray” -Independent musicians navigating the pull of commercial cinema -Students of music, film, and sound design -Anyone curious about the future of music in the age of AI and reels Credits: Interview by Greeshma Kuthar Camera and editing: Origin Story, Kochi Produced by Team Frontline Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295

Is Bihar’s caste equation changing again in 2025? | Prof. Abdul Qadir explains

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 07:39:00 -0000

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, Professor Abdul Qadir decodes the mood in Bihar ahead of the 2025 Assembly election. Speaking from Gaya, Qadir traces how caste, class, and community alliances are shifting—from the historical legacy of "backward-caste solidarity" to new anxieties among Muslim voters and the rise (and decline) of parties like All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen. He dissects the implications of political violence in Mokama, the controversies over voter roll deletions during the Special Intensive Revision, and the Election Commission of India's credibility crisis. With insights into Tejashwi Yadav’s campaign, the Mahagathbandhan’s prospects, and the Communist Party of India (Marxist–Leninist) Liberation’s growing influence, Qadir offers a ground-level view of how democracy and disenfranchisement are colliding in Bihar’s heartland. Highlights: -The legacy of Magadh’s backward-caste politics -The Mokama killing and OBC–forward caste polarisation -The voter list “survey” and election fairness debate -How Muslims weigh safety, survival, and political representation -Why Asaduddin Owaisi’s party may lose traction in Seemanchal -How Tejashwi Yadav shifted the campaign narrative -The strategic role of CPI(ML) and Left parties Perfect for: -Students of political science and sociology -Journalists covering Bihar politics -Researchers of caste and class dynamics in Indian democracy -Viewers seeking analytical perspectives on Bihar’s 2025 elections Credits: Interview by: Anand Mishra Camera: Ranjan Rahi Editing: Razal Pareed Produced by: Team Frontline

Originally published on Nov 3, 2025

Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online..

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King will not contest elections; he knows the limits of his support: Ranjit Rae

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 11:52:00 -0000

Nepal is witnessing a surge in pro-monarchy protests, driven by widespread discontent over corruption, misgovernance, and political instability. While these demonstrations reflect frustration with the current system, they also underscore the country’s delicate position between two regional giants—India and China. Both nations have a vested interest in Nepal’s political trajectory, raising questions about whether external influences are shaping this growing unrest. Is the return of the monarchy a genuine possibility, or is this turmoil merely a symptom of deeper governance failures?

In an exclusive interview for Frontline Conversations, senior journalist Nirupama Subramanian speaks to India’s former Ambassador to Nepal (2013–17), Ranjit Rae. Rae examines the resurgence of monarchist sentiment, the shortcomings of Nepal’s political leadership, and the broader geopolitical forces at play.

India must acknowledge that its treatment of Muslims has repercussions: Debapriya Bhattacharya

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 11:52:00 -0000

Since August 2024, India-Bangladesh relations have undergone a seismic shift. Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was seen as a reliable and trusted friend of India, but strong opposition to her within Bangladesh, along with her close ties to New Delhi, appear to have worked against both her and India. Now believed to be living in exile in Delhi, Sheikh Hasina has left behind strained India-Bangladesh relations, which have plunged to their lowest point in three decades. The latest development in this saga is the visit of Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus (who leads the interim administration in Dhaka) to Beijing, where he received a warm welcome from President Xi Jinping and other Chinese leaders. The two sides signed a raft of agreements. To understand the impact of this visit, the challenges facing India-Bangladesh ties, and the latest developments in Bangladesh politics, Frontline spoke to the distinguished Bangladeshi economist and public policy specialist, Debapriya Bhattacharya. He is with the Dhaka-based Center for Policy Dialogue and also headed a committee that prepared a White Paper (released last December) on the state of the Bangladesh’s economy for the interim administration. The White Paper’s headline finding was that corruption had severely undermined the economy: Bangladesh had lost $16 billion annually over the last 15 years due to money laundering alone.

Delimitation Debate | 'India should now think of extreme decentralisation': Nilakantan R.S.

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 11:50:00 -0000

The topic of delimitation has turned into a South vs North debate, with most of the States in south India expected to lose seats in a demography-based delimitation exercise. The southern States strongly oppose any redrawing of Lok Sabha constituency boundaries solely on the basis of current population figures as it would not only reduce their political representation at the national level but also amount to penalising them for adhering to the national policy of population control.

Nilakantan R.S., data scientist and author of the bestselling book South vs North: India’s Great Divide, suggests that extreme decentralisation could be a way out. In an exclusive interview with Frontline, Nilakantan says the answer lies in making the prize, which is the government in Delhi, less attractive. He says that altering the structure of governance in the country so that the States get more powers could be a way out.

EXCLUSIVE | 'The two-state solution died a long time ago': Gideon Levy on Gaza conflict

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 11:48:00 -0000

In an exclusive interview for Frontline Conversations, noted Israeli journalist and author Gideon Levy talks to Frontline's Bashir Ali Abbas about the Gaza conflict and potential solutions to the crisis. Levy further discusses Israel’s ceasefire violations, the US’ influence, Gaza’s future, Hamas’ role, and the fading two-state solution. Gideon Levy, the internationally acclaimed journalist and author, is an award-winning columnist at Israel’s Haaretz newspaper and part of its editorial board. Known for his critical views on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Levy is recognised for his writings on the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories and has received several awards for his work, including the Euro-Med Journalist Prize, the Leipzig Freedom Prize, and Israel’s top journalism award, the Sokolov Prize, in 2021.

'Cinema is hope': Goutam Ghose

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 11:45:00 -0000

In this interview, legendary filmmaker Goutam Ghose talks to Frontline’s Suhrid Sankar Chattopadhyay about “Raahgir”, a visually stunning yet logistically challenging film. He discusses the challenges of shooting in remote terrains and explores the film’s deeper themes of humanity, compassion, and endurance. “Raahgir” was inspired by a short story by Prafulla Roy and driven by Ghose’s quest to explore land, nature, human relationships, and cultural ethnicity in an era of increasing materialism and intolerance. Shot during the monsoon, the film required meticulous planning to make the journey look spontaneous and natural on screen. He further discussed his take on the utilisation of cinematic time and space, the conflict in cinema, the dedication of actors towards films, among other things.

'WTO, as we know it, is finished': Mohan Kumar, retired diplomat

Sat, 01 Mar 2025 06:30:00 -0000

Mohan Kumar, a former Indian Ambassador to France, is currently Dean, Strategic and International Initiatives, and a professor of diplomatic practice at O.P. Jindal Global University. As India’s lead negotiator first at the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) and then at the WTO in crucial areas such as intellectual property rights, services, dispute settlement, and the environment, he has enormous expertise in the area of international trade and multilateral negotiations. He has served on multiple GATT and WTO dispute settlement panels.

In this exclusive interview with senior journalist Nirupama Subramanian, conducted after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the US, Mohan Kumar spoke about Indo-US relations, defence sales, and international trade and tariff concerns.

'Relieved that the Adani wind energy project has been annulled': Rohan Pethiyagoda

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 10:38:00 -0000

In this exclusive interview, Rohan Pethiyagoda, a well-known scientist and public policy advocate in Sri Lanka, talks to senior journalist Nirupama Subramanian about Adani Green Energy’s recent decision to withdraw from its controversial wind energy project in Sri Lanka. In their conversation, Pethiyagoda and Subramanian discuss the wind power project, its environmental impact, Sri Lanka’s energy policy, and political pressures, among other things.

Adani Green’s decision comes amid the Sri Lankan government’s move to renegotiate the Power Purchase Agreement signed under the previous administration. There was also growing scrutiny over the project’s environmental impact and transparency.

The speaker offers an analysis of the project, which has been at the centre of intense debate due to its inflated pricing, lack of transparency, and potential environmental impact. The project, which involves large-scale wind farms in Mannar and Pooneryn, had sparked concerns not only over cost but also about political influence and the environmental consequences of developing in a crucial migratory area for birds.

'Zakia Jafri was more than a widow seeking justice': Zara Chowdhary

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 12:54:18 -0000

Zakia Jafri, who fought an over two-decade-long legal battle to secure justice for the victims of the 2002 Gujarat riots, died at the age of 86 in Ahmedabad on February 1. Her husband, former Congress MP Ehsan Jafri, was among the 69 people who were killed inside Gulberg Society, a Muslim neighbourhood in Ahmedabad, during the riots.

“Out of hundreds of Gujarat cases, Zakia Jafri’s was the one that insisted: this wasn’t just a personal tragedy, it was an attack on an entire people,” Zara Chowdhary, the author of The Lucky Ones: A Memoir, told Greeshma Kuthar. In a freewheeling conversation, Chowdhary and Kuthar discuss Zakia Jafri’s struggle and legacy, the erasure of collective memory, and Chowdhary’s book set during the 2002 riots, among other things.

We wanted to understand the civilisation we come from: Thangam Thenarasu

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 13:40:38 -0000

On September 20, 2024, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin said the State government planned to hold an international conference and install a life-size statue of the archaeologist John Marshall, who announced the discovery of the Indus Valley Civilisation through excavations at Harappa and Mohenjo-daro exactly a century ago.

In January 2025, CM Stalin announced a $1 million prize for experts or organisations that succeed in deciphering the scripts of the Indus Valley civilisation for everyone to understand.

In this exclusive interview, Minister Thenarasu explains its implications for Dravidian history, how artificial intelligence can be used to decrypt meanings, and more.

'Only Delhi has this kind of a khichdi, mish-mash governance': Jasmine Shah

Sat, 11 Jan 2025 12:14:42 -0000

Ahead of the Delhi Assembly election scheduled on February 5, 2025, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Jasmine Shah’s book, The Delhi Model: A Bold New Road Map To Building a Developed India, was released in New Delhi. It is an insider’s account of the making of the “Delhi model” of governance, which according to the AAP was conceptualised by its party chief, Arvind Kejriwal, in consultation with other leaders and experts.

While the AAP’s political rivals criticise the model as a ploy to seek votes by offering revdis (freebies) to the electorate, Shah shows how it is, on the contrary, a unique road map for development with its emphasis on investment in human capital and putting money in the hands of the people. In an exclusive interview with Frontline's Soni Mishra, Shah discussed his book, the AAP’s method of working, and the importance of Arvind Kejriwal.

Greenwashing in Indian Railways? | '100% Electrification Will Result in Suboptimal Use of Assets': K. Balakesari

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 13:07:00 -0000

In an exclusive interview for Frontline Conversations, former Railway Board member K. Balakesari tells Senior Associate Editor R.K. Radhakrishnan that the hurry to electrify the railway track was misguided as the “pollution is just being moved along the tracks”. In a freewheeling interview, Balakesari shares his insights on the availability of electric locomotives, political considerations influencing key decisions, the relevance of bullet trains in the Indian context, installation of Kavach anti-collision devices, and more.

Gauri Lankesh rejected neutral journalism: Rollo Romig

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 12:52:54 -0000

Rollo Romig, American journalist, essayist, and critic, has spent considerable time in South India since 2013 and his first book, I Am on the Hit List: Murder and Myth-making in South India, takes its title from the late activist and journalist Gauri Lankesh’s own darkly prescient inclusion of herself in a self-prepared list of potential targets of Hindu right-wing elements. The book begins with her murder on September 5, 2017, which shocked both the nation and the world.

Through extensive reportage and research, Romig sensitively captures Lankesh’s life and death, chronicles the investigation that followed, and examines how Indian politics and society have transformed since Narendra Modi became Prime Minister in 2014—a context essential to understanding both Lankesh’s life and death. In his first interview with an Indian publication, Romig speaks to Frontline.

The West's hypocrisy has become almost unbearable: Kanwal Sibal

Sat, 28 Dec 2024 13:50:15 -0000

In this comprehensive interview, former Indian Foreign Secretary and Ambassador to Moscow, Kanwal Sibal delivers an expert analysis of the recent assassination of Russian General Igor Kirillov and its implications for the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Speaking with veteran diplomat-turned-journalist Amit Baruah, Sibal provides unique insights from an Indian perspective on the escalating tensions, Western involvement, and the complex dynamics affecting India's strategic interests.

'Opposition has a role to play in democracy, but they must do so responsibly': Najma Heptulla

Thu, 26 Dec 2024 09:52:21 -0000

Najma Heptulla is one of India’s longest-serving parliamentarians, holding the record for the longest stint as Deputy Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha. Her granduncle was Dr Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, a key freedom fighter and independent India’s first Union Education Minister. She was close to the Nehru-Gandhi family, working in Indira Gandhi’s inner circle and maintaining a strong relationship with Rajiv Gandhi. Her political shift from the Congress to the BJP, following a disagreement with Sonia Gandhi, drew widespread attention.

In her recent autobiography, In Pursuit of Democracy: Beyond Party Lines, Heptulla writes about her political journey. Currently living with her daughter in Chicago, she talks at length with Frontline about issues ranging from what went wrong between her and Sonia Gandhi, why she does not consider the BJP or the RSS ideological outcasts, the opposition’s no-confidence move against Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar, and what she did to get the situation in Manipur under control when she was Governor.

'Syria is looking at a long period of instability': Talmiz Ahmad

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 13:58:48 -0000

In this important interview, former Indian Ambassador Talmiz Ahmad talks about how Syria changed forever in 2024. He explains the fall of Assad's government, Israel's new military moves, and what it all means for peace in West Asia.

'I often compare Indian history with Game of Thrones': Ira Mukhoty

Sat, 23 Nov 2024 06:30:00 -0000

Historian Ira Mukhoty's latest book, The Lion and The Lily: The Rise and Fall of Awadh, challenges long-held views about the fall of the Mughal Empire and the rise of British rule in India. Through her focus on the kingdom of Awadh, Mukhoty reveals a complex narrative of regional courts resisting British imperialism while engaging in international diplomacy. In an interview with Anirudh Kanisetti for Frontline, she discusses the capable rulers of Awadh, the French influence in 18th-century India, and how British propaganda has shaped our understanding of this pivotal period. Mukhoty's work, drawing from diverse sources, offers a fresh perspective on a transformative era in Indian history.

Aparajita Bill a political gimmick: Justice Asok Kumar Ganguly

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 06:30:00 -0000

On September 2, the West Bengal government passed the Aparajita Woman and Child (West Bengal Criminal Laws Amendment) Bill, 2024, apparently in response to the gruesome rape and murder of a young doctor in Kolkata's R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital. Since then, the Bill has been universally panned as regressive, unconstitutional, and anti-feminist, with activists calling it nothing more than a desperate attempt by the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress government to quell the rising public anger against it. It has also attracted criticism for several aspects such as mandatory death sentence, reducing the time frame for investigation and trial, and enhanced punishments under several sections of the existing laws such as the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita; the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita; and the POCSO Act.

In an exclusive interview with Frontline, retired Supreme Court Justice and eminent jurist Asok Kumar Ganguly pointed out that “mandatory death sentence” had already been outlawed via a 1983 Supreme Court judgment and when the entire world is moving towards abolition of the death penalty, making it mandatory marks the Bill as regressive. He also spoke about how harsher laws do not impact the rate of crime, the societal changes needed to prevent rape, and more.

India needs to engage with Bangladesh much more proactively: Sudeep Chakravarti

Sat, 16 Nov 2024 06:30:00 -0000

The prolific author Sudeep Chakravarti’s 10th book, Fallen City, is about Delhi, where two children, Geeta and Sanjay, were brutally murdered in 1978. He places the crime in a socio-political context. Chakravarti’s own life is as interesting as his work and he has just emerged after three years in Dhaka, where he set up a South Asia study department at a university.

In an interview with Frontline, he speaks about his latest book, Bangladesh’s transformation over the years, the ouster of Sheikh Hasina, the recent spate of violence against the nation’s Hindus, the protests in Kolkata, and more.

Haryana and Jammu and Kashmir Elections: What's the deal?

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 06:30:00 -0000

In this insightful edition of Frontline Conversations, veteran journalist Saba Naqvi engages in a candid discussion with political scientist Ashish Ranjan about the recent electoral developments in Haryana and Jammu & Kashmir. The conversation delves into the intricacies of caste dynamics, social engineering, and the changing political landscape in these regions.

Key topics covered include:

The close contest in Haryana between the BJP and Congress
The BJP's successful social coalition strategy
Congress's missteps in Haryana and broader strategic challenges
The political situation in Jammu & Kashmir post-Article 370 abrogation
The performance of regional parties like the National Conference and Aam Aadmi Party
Implications for upcoming elections in Maharashtra, Jharkhand, and Delhi

Ranjan, drawing from his extensive experience with institutions like CSDS, Ashoka University's Trivedi Centre, and the Centre for Policy Research, offers data-driven insights into voting patterns, caste equations, and the evolving strategies of major political parties. The conversation provides a comprehensive analysis of the current political scenario and its potential impact on future electoral battles in the country.

Hema Committee Report | 'It cannot get dirtier, it can only get cleaner': Bina Paul

Sat, 09 Nov 2024 06:30:00 -0000

The Justice Hema Committee report released in August shed light on the widespread and persistent nature of sexual harassment in the Malayalam film industry. The report’s revelations have sparked a host of reactions, dividing both the industry and the society at large. The Women in Cinema Collective (WCC), a group of women from the industry initially formed in response to a female actor being abducted and sexually assaulted in February 2017, has been at the forefront of advocating the release of the report and its findings.

Bina Paul, multiple National Award and Kerala State Film Award-winning film editor, is one of the WCC’s prominent faces. In an interview with Frontline, she says that the collective’s biggest achievement was putting gender issues on the agenda and hopes that the industry can come together to bring about systemic change.

It’s all about power and the entitlement to misuse it: Sreelekha Mitra

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 06:30:00 -0000

In a scathing indictment of the Indian film industry, Bengali actor Sreelekha Mitra has once again thrust into the spotlight the pervasive issues of misogyny, exploitation, and abuse of power that have long plagued Bollywood and regional cinema alike. Speaking exclusively to Frontline, Mitra, known for her roles in hits like Hothat Brishti and Aschorjo Pradip, pulls no punches as she recounts her own experiences of inappropriate behaviour from powerful industry figures and the subsequent backlash for daring to speak out.

From allegations against popular Malayalam director Ranjith to calling out big names in the Bengali film industry, Mitra's testimony paints a disturbing picture of an industry where silence is rewarded and truth-tellers are ostracised. As the #MeToo movement continues to shake up Indian cinema, especially in the context of the release of the Hema Committee Report in Kerala, Mitra's revelations offer a rare, insider's glimpse into the "dark corners" of a world where power dynamics and entrenched patriarchal attitudes continue to haunt women both on and off screen.

EXCLUSIVE | 'Absolute majority for Mahayuti': Sunil Tatkare on Maharashtra Assembly election

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 12:40:50 -0000

From Maratha reservations to Mumbai's development and from farmer welfare to alliance dynamics, Sunil Tatkare, prominent NCP leader and Lok Sabha MP from Raigad, decodes Maharashtra's shifting political landscape in a candid conversation with Frontline's Amey Tirodkar.

In this revealing interview, Sunil Tatkare offers unprecedented insights into the State's political transformation since the parliamentary election earlier this year. After Mahayuti's underwhelming performance in the Lok Sabha election (17 seats vs MVA's 31), the alliance faces multiple challenges: Maratha reservation demands, industrial policy criticism, and alliance coordination issues. Tatkare, representing the Ajit Pawar faction of the NCP, offers new perspectives on these challenges.

HIGHLIGHTS:

Why Mahayuti expects to reverse Lok Sabha election results
Inside story of alliance vote transfer strategy
Clear stance on Maratha reservation controversy
Detailed response to industrial exodus claims
Fresh insights into Mumbai development projects
Candid discussion about post-Sharad Pawar politics

EXCLUSIVE | 'We're Ahead by 2 Lakh Votes in Mumbai': BJP’s Ashish Shelar on Dharavi, Development, and Elections

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 12:12:28 -0000

Direct. Unfiltered. Controversial. Mumbai BJP president Ashish Shelar breaks his silence on the Dharavi redevelopment deal, answers tough questions about Adani, and reveals the BJP-led Mahayuti's game plan for Mumbai's 36 seats. In this hard-hitting Frontline interview, Shelar tackles everything from vote banks to Metro lines, from Uddhav Thackeray to urban renewal.

Shelar speaks on the burning issues shaping Maharashtra politics, from "vote jihad" to Vision 2024, from Marathi Manoos to Metro Lines. He also offers hot takes on the following matters:

Why BJP lost 4 Lok Sabha seats in Mumbai
Inside the Rs.60,000 crore BMC story
Truth about the Adani-Dharavi deal
Secret behind BJP's Assembly election strategy
Real reason for breaking up with Uddhav Thackeray

EXCLUSIVE | Aaditya Thackeray on Maharashtra's future & MVA's vision

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 11:47:43 -0000

In this exclusive interview with Frontline's Amey Tirodkar, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray shares his candid views on Maharashtra's political landscape ahead of the crucial Assembly elections. The first from the Thackeray family to contest elections, he discusses his party's agenda, the MVA alliance, and his vision for Maharashtra's development.

Aaditya Thackeray addresses crucial topics including Maharashtra's industrial development, the Dharavi redevelopment controversy, and the MVA's vision for the state's future. He speaks frankly about his party's stance on various issues, from the Maratha reservation protests to allegations of "vote jehad".

This interview explores several critical aspects of Maharashtra's current political scenario:

MVA government's achievements and subsequent challenges
Industrial development and job creation initiatives
Dharavi redevelopment controversy
Law and order situation under current administration
Maratha reservation issues
Electoral strategies and alliance dynamics
Religious polarisation and voting patterns
Future vision for Maharashtra's development

Thackeray's insights are particularly valuable given his unique position both as a former Minister and a key opposition figure. The conversation takes place against the backdrop of several significant developments:

The upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections
Recent controversies surrounding major infrastructure projects
Ongoing Maratha reservation protests
Shifting industrial investments
Law and order challenges
Evolution of MVA alliance dynamics
BJP's welfare schemes and electoral strategy

Hema Committee Report will make Malayalam film industry safer: Revathi

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 06:30:00 -0000

In the context of the Hema Committee report that rocked Malayalam cinema and beyond, actor and director Revathi talks about the changing film industry in this interview with Frontline. She discusses the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC), a group she helped start in 2017 after a serious incident in the Malayalam film industry. The WCC aims to fix long-standing problems in the industry. Revathi has worked in movies for several decades, and now she uses her experience to push for better treatment of women in the film world.

In this conversation, she explains how the WCC grew from a small group chat into an organisation that fights for change. She also talks about the Hema Committee report, a government study about women's working conditions in Malayalam films. Revathi shares what she thinks about its findings and why it took so long to come out. Her insights show how hard it can be to change an industry with old habits. Revathi points out problems like sexual harassment, unequal pay, and poor working conditions on film sets. She explains how new actors often have less power and face more risks. Some people support the WCC's work, while others oppose it, and Revathi talks about dealing with both reactions. She suggests ways to make things better, including new laws and changes in how the industry works. She shares how speaking up has affected her own career and why she thinks it's important to keep fighting for change, even when the fight becomes difficult.

'Article 370 should be the concern of the republic itself': Mohammed Yousuf Tarigami

Sat, 02 Nov 2024 06:30:00 -0000

As Jammu and Kashmir prepares for its first Assembly elections in a decade, CPI(M) leader and People's Alliance for Gupkar Declaration (PAGD) spokesperson Mohammed Yousuf Tarigami discusses the political landscape following the abrogation of Article 370. In an exclusive interview with Frontline, Tarigami addresses the challenges facing the region, including the downgrading of statehood, concerns over land and job protections, and the need for unity among secular parties to counter the BJP's influence. He stresses the broader implications of Article 370's removal, calling it an "assault on the bond of relationship" between J&K and India, while expressing cautious optimism about the restoration of statehood and the democratic process.

'Every one of us is a minority in this country’: Yogendra Yadav

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 10:45:14 -0000

In this wide-ranging and insightful interview, renowned political analyst and activist Yogendra Yadav offers a penetrating look at the current state of Indian politics and society. Speaking to Frontline, Yadav draws on his unique perspective as both a commentator and participant in the political process to analyse some of the most pressing issues facing India today.

In the 2024 general election, he was a phenomenal predictor of electoral outcome. “Indian society is a pyramid. The top of the pyramid has been captured by the BJP in terms of caste, class, and gender. The bottom of the pyramid is the biggest social force to defend the Constitution, republic, and democracy in the country. So future politics has to be politics of the bottom of the pyramid. BJP’s political strategy has been to capture the top of the pyramid and walk away with a few slices from the bottom,” he tells Frontline.

Waqf Amendment Bill | 'They've brought it with vengeance': K. Rahman Khan, former Union Minister

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 10:43:20 -0000

A former Union Minister of Minority Affairs, K. Rahman Khan’s political career spans more than five decades, starting in Karnataka before moving to the national arena. He became a member of the Rajya Sabha in the 1990s, serving four consecutive terms. During this time, he headed two joint parliamentary committees, leading to the amendment of the Waqf Act of 1995. He also served as the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.

In this interview with Frontline, Khan launches a scathing critique of proposed amendments to the Waqf Act, accusing the Modi government of attempting to undermine Muslim control over vast Waqf properties across India. The veteran politician argues that the new Bill, far from improving transparency and accountability as claimed, is a thinly veiled attempt to wrest control of Muslim religious endowments.

What is happening in Bangladesh? | In conversation with Swati Narayan, author and academic

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 10:40:50 -0000

Bangladesh is presently in a state of nationwide upheaval after a students' protest demanding reform in the country’s reservation system for government jobs turned violent and forced Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina out of power. India’s ties with Bangladesh are essential and the continuance of violence and unrest can adversely affect the bordering States and other parts of the country. Hasina was one of India’s close strategic partners in a neighbourhood that is fraught with anti-Indian sentiment. So what does the latest spate of violence mean for Bangladesh's future?

In the latest episode of Frontline Conversations, senior journalist Saba Naqvi speaks with academic and author, Swati Narayan, over Zoom, about her book, 'Unequal: Why India Lags Behind Its Neighbours', which focusses on Bangladesh's social and economic growth over decades, its political instabilities, and citizens' secular practices. Professor Narayan also discusses Hasina's contentious tenure as PM and the state of upheaval the nation is currently in following her ouster and the swearing-in of the caretaker government led by Dr. Muhammad Yunus.

'We shed blood for the idea of India. But we feel betrayed now': Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi, Srinagar MP

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 10:40:25 -0000

In a wide-ranging and candid conversation with senior journalist Saba Naqvi, Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi, Member of Parliament from Srinagar, offers a stark assessment of the situation in Jammu and Kashmir nearly five years after the abrogation of Article 370. Speaking as one of the few elected representatives from the region in the Parliament, Mehdi describes a climate of disempowerment, economic distress, and alienation among Kashmiris. He argues that the removal of J&K's special status was unconstitutional and has eroded the region's relationship with India, while failing to address security concerns.

Mehdi paints a troubling picture of demographic changes, loss of local economic opportunities, and a growing drug problem that he suggests may be deliberately overlooked. While acknowledging some positive developments like increased tourism, he contends these are temporary and mask deeper issues. Throughout, Mehdi stresses his commitment to democracy and non-violence, even as he advocates for the restoration of J&K's previous constitutional status. His perspective offers rare insight into the complex realities and sentiments in Kashmir today from an elected leader navigating between local aspirations and national politics.

'Every hour, six people die of snake bite in India': Sumanth Bindumadhav

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 10:39:11 -0000

Snakebites claim more lives in India than all other animal-related deaths combined, yet this crisis remains largely invisible. Frontline's Deputy Editor Vikhar Ahmed Sayeed sits down with Sumanth Bindumadhav, a leading herpetologist and Director of Wildlife at Humane Society International, India, to uncoil the complexities of this overlooked epidemic. Bindumadhav reveals startling figures: 10 lakh snakebite cases annually, resulting in 58,000 deaths - that's six lives lost every hour. The burden falls heavily on farmers and rural labourers, with far-reaching socioeconomic impacts. From venom variations across regions to antivenom shortages and deeply rooted cultural beliefs, the challenges snake through India's healthcare system.

As Karnataka becomes the first state to make snakebites a notifiable disease, Bindumadhav discusses the potential for data-driven solutions. He also shares simple yet effective prevention strategies and emphasizes the need for a multi-departmental approach to tackle this venomous problem.

Will the new criminal laws make India a police state? | Rebecca John in conversation with Saba Naqvi

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 10:38:12 -0000

New criminal laws [Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA)] took effect in India on July 1, 2024, raising concerns that they could push the country towards becoming a police state. But what are these laws really about? In Frontline Conversations, senior journalist Saba Naqvi interviews Rebecca John, one of India's top criminal defence lawyers and a senior advocate specialising in criminal law.

According to Rebecca John, the major changes in the criminal laws include incorporating UAPA's and Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act's Section and Offence provisions into the penal code, altering arrest and remand rules, and allowing police inquiries before filing First Information Reports (FIRs). Police can now remand suspects to custody in staggered periods over 40-60 days, instead of the initial 15-day limit. Rebecca believes the Home Minister's clarification about the 15-day custody limit should still apply, despite ambiguous wording in the new laws. She criticises the incorporation of draconian laws into the penal code and the contradiction of Supreme Court rulings with new inquiry rules. Other changes cover laws regarding mob lynching, sexual offences, and judicial procedures.

'India doesn't tolerate differences, it celebrates': Sasikanth Senthil

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 10:28:19 -0000

Sasikanth Senthil has been a key figure in the Congress' resurgent performance in the 2024 Lok Sabha election, where they won 99 seats—up from 52 in 2019. Though he prefers to keep a low profile, Senthil (45) won his Lok Sabha election from Tiruvallur, a reserved (Scheduled Caste) constituency in Tamil Nadu, by a margin of over five and a half lakh votes, the highest in the State. Senthil has also been actively involved with the Congress "war room" for the general election, which he also helped set up in Karnataka ahead of the 2023 Assembly election.

Senthil, who comes from a Dalit family, studied engineering at NIT Trichy before cracking the civil services exam to become an IAS officer. But he gave it up in 2019 to take up political activism, subsequently joining the Congress. During his swearing-in ceremony as MP, he stood out for highlighting injustice towards minorities, Dalits, and Adivasis, in line with his party's social justice plank.

In this exclusive interview with senior journalist Saba Naqvi, Sasikanth Senthil speaks about his journey to Parliament, his stint with the civil services and why he quit, the state of Dalit politics in India, and more.

Saikat Majumdar: 'The scariest thing is the chance to live by your own convictions'

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 10:27:12 -0000

Saikat Majumdar is one of the most talked about writers in India today. The author of critically acclaimed novels such as 'Silver Fish', 'The Firebird', 'The Scent of God', and 'The Middle Finger' as well as important non-fiction works like 'College: Pathways of Possibility' and 'Prose of the World', Majumdar has emerged as one of the most fearless and original voices in Indian literature in recent years.

In this episode of Frontline Conversations, Saikat Majumdar speaks to Suhrid Sankar Chattopadhyay about his new novel 'The Remains of the Body', reflects on his entire body of work down the years, and more.

The Great Nicobar Betrayal

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 10:26:44 -0000

Naturalist Yuvan Aves and Pankaj Sekhsaria, an associate professor at the Centre for Technology Alternatives for Rural Areas, IIT Bombay, environmentalist, and author discuss 'The Great Nicobar Betrayal', a book published by Frontline Magazine, The Hindu Group and put together by Mr. Sekhsaria. It is a compilation of articles by different authors published in Frontline and other news publications.

The massive project envisioned by NITI Aayog, includes construction of a transhipment port at Galathea Bay—a significant hotspot for leatherback turtle nesting—an international airport, a power plant, and a greenfield township on more than 160 square kilometres of land, of which 130 sq.km. is primary forests.

'Federalism should be back to what it was': Christophe Jaffrelot

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 10:17:45 -0000

The French political scientist and indologist speaks to Aditya Mani Jha about his recent book titled, 'Gujarat Under Modi: Laboratory of Today's India' which focuses on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat, his policies, recruitment practices, and more.

Frontline Conversations | Mirwaiz Umar Farooq in conversation with Amit Baruah

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 18:30:00 -0000

Hurriyat Conference Chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, the religious head of Kashmiri Muslims, talks to Amit Baruah in this episode of Frontline Conversations at his home in Nigeen, Srinagar. After years of house arrest, he shares his views on Kashmir's current situation and its future. The Mirwaiz discusses the recent elections in Kashmir, calling them a "consolidated ballot" against the changes made by New Delhi since 2019. He says people voted to show they reject these changes, not because they're happy with the "Naya Kashmir" idea. He talks about how the BJP government's actions have affected Kashmir. The Mirwaiz believes that removing Article 370 hasn't solved any problems. Instead, he thinks it has made the Kashmir issue more international, with China now involved because of Ladakh.

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq compares the current BJP government with Atal Bihari Vajpayee's time. He remembers Vajpayee's efforts to solve the Kashmir issue "within the ambit of insaniyat" (humanity). The Mirwaiz sees the current government's approach as very different, saying it wants to "finish the identity of the people of Jammu and Kashmir."

He shares his concerns about the treatment of Muslims across India, saying Kashmiris are watching what's happening in other states. The Mirwaiz believes these actions are pushing Kashmiris further away from New Delhi. The interview also covers the Mirwaiz's personal situation. He talks about his long house arrest and current restrictions on his movement. Despite these challenges, he continues to speak out when he can. The Mirwaiz ends with a call for addressing the Kashmir issue. He says that as long as Kashmir remains divided between India and Pakistan, the problem will stay alive. He hopes future governments will return to dialogue and find a fair solution.

Amit Baruah in conversation with Mohammed Yousuf Tarigami

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 16:13:00 -0000

Speaking after securing his fifth term as an MLA, M.Y. Tarigami paints a complex picture of a populace eager for democratic expression yet constrained by years of political turmoil and centralised control. He describes the elections as a watershed moment, where citizens across all demographics seized a rare opportunity to voice their concerns through the ballot, breaking a long spell of enforced silence. However, Tarigami’s optimism is tempered with caution as he outlines the challenges ahead: a polarised political landscape, diminished local autonomy, and the delicate balancing act required in dealing with the Central government.